Brownfields Redevelopment - A Guide for Municipalities
Reclaiming Underused Land - The Redevelopment of Brownfields
As this country enters the twenty-first century, it needs to recognize the importance of "smart growth" land use policies. Land needs to be viewed as a resource that cannot be discarded easily. This is especially true as it applies to the abandonment and underutilization of commercial and industrial properties that have deteriorated since the decline of certain industries in this country. Across the nation, abandoned factories, warehouses, rail yards and mills that were once part of our nation's economic and historic fabric have been abandoned and neglected because of their actual or perceived environmental contamination. Known as "brownfields," these properties lay dormant where they contribute to urban blight and diminish the quality of life for the families and individuals that live and work near them.
The redevelopment of brownfields can do much to revitalize sluggish local economies and restore community pride by transforming these idle brownfield sites into beneficial community assets.
The restoration of brownfields can:
- Reclaim underutilized lands and restore them to productive use.
- Protect public health by improving the environment through the cleanup of contaminated properties.
- Create reuse plans that can help to establish a "sense of place" and restore community pride and unity.
- Preserve historically and architecturally significant structures that were part of our nation's industrial revolution.
- Increase the local property tax base by adding productive ratables.
- Contribute to the local economy through the creation of new businesses and jobs.
- Remove blight from distressed neighborhoods and give residents a sense of hope for the future.
- Once redeveloped, will encourage other surrounding properties to achieve their highest and best use.
As noted above, the redevelopment and restoration of brownfields can lead to the revitalization of the surrounding neighborhood and the community as a whole. One of the main goals of the Monmouth County Growth Management Guide -Goals, Objectives and Policies (adopted December 1995) is the revitalization of older urban areas. Brownfield redevelopment is one tool that can be used to achieve that goal. The New Jersey State Development and Redevelopment Plan (adopted March 1, 2001) also encourages urban revitalization and the reuse and redevelopment of brownfield sites.
Brownfield Policies of the New Jersey State Development and Redevelopment Plan
Priority for Community Brownfield Plans
Give priority for public resources and assistance to communities with brownfield redevelopment strategies consistent with neighborhood and municipal plans.
Redevelopment of Brownfield Sites
Plan, locate and market redevelopment to capitalize on opportunities presented by brownfield sites, including existing infrastructure systems; established communities, businesses and industries; available work force and human resources; and regulatory, statutory and financial incentives.
Coordinated Planning for Brownfield Sites
Identify sites and areas for redevelopment consistent with a community-based vision and consensus and prepare brownfield redevelopment strategies that coordinate community planning efforts with all levels of government.
Brownfields Reuse
Base the selection of remedial standards and actions on future use in a manner that ensures protection of public health and the environment.
Additional Information, Reports and Brochures:
Page Last Updated: 3/11/2013 10:17:00 AM