Governor Doyle Announces $1.7 Million in Brownfield Grants

For Immediate Release: February 26, 2009
Contact: Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608-267-9661
Carla Vigue, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162
Adam Collins, DNR, 608-266-2243

MADISON - Governor Jim Doyle today announced $1.7 million in Brownfield Site Assessment Grants, jumpstarting economic redevelopment in 29 communities with abandoned or deteriorating properties. The grants provide seed money to local governments for demolition, environmental assessments, and removal of abandoned tanks and containers. Brownfields are abandoned, idle or underused industrial or commercial properties where redevelopment is hindered by real or perceived contamination.

“The cleanup and safe reuse of brownfield properties is about more than just renewing damaged or vacant land, it helps spur additional reinvestment in these communities and create jobs for hardworking Wisconsin families,” Governor Doyle said.

The 42 grants for 2009, worth a total of $1.7 million, will provide funds for environmental activities on 162 acres of land, including 61 site assessments and investigations, the demolition of 61 buildings or structures and the removal of 17 tanks, drums and other abandoned containers. More than half of the 29 local governments receiving awards are rural communities looking to spur economic growth in less populated areas.

Since site assessment grants began 10 years ago, the state has awarded more than $15 million to 199 communities to begin investigation and cleanup on more than 1,500 acres.

The following local governments are receiving grants:

Cities, Towns, Villages and Counties

Redevelopment and Community Development Authorities (RDAs and CDAs)

*Indicates partial funding

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Andrew Savagian, 608-261-6422 or andrew.savagian@wisconsin.gov.

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