Brownfield cleanup funds bolstered

Efforts to clean up and redevelop Brownfield sites in Aroostook County will continue thanks to funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Northern Maine Development Commission (NMDC) received $200,000 for communitywide assessments.
A Brownfield is a property, the expansion, redevelopment or reuse of which, may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant or contaminant.
“Whenever we can get in and perform assessment work on a property it is a benefit all-around – it is a benefit to the community, the property owner and the environment, it is a win-win for everyone,” said Jay Kamm, senior planner at NMDC. “This is all about closing the loop and getting these Brownfields identified, cleaned up and hopefully redeveloped.”
Previous Brownfield funding has been utilized to assess and cleanup sites in Presque Isle, Fort Kent, Houlton, Ashland, Fort Fairfield and other properties in the region.
“Maximizing the potential of these sites will benefit our region in many ways — it bolsters local economies, prioritizes the safety and well-being of our residents and ensures that these types of locations can positively contribute to a community’s sustained grow,” said Rep. Mike Michaud in announcing the funding. “I look forward to seeing the results of these assessment and cleanup projects.”
If you would like more information regarding NMDC’s Brownfield program, please contact Kamm at 498-8736 or by email at jkamm@nmdc.org.