Yesterday, the Ohio Department of Development published guidelines for the new Brownfield Remediation Fund, as well as the Building Demolition and Site Revitalization Program. This followed the issuance of an Executive Order by Governor Mike DeWine to fast-track the process of creating temporary rules for the program so it can begin operation before the end of the year. Final rules will still need to be approved by the Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review (JCARR).

“As the leading advocates for the creation of a state-funded brownfield remediation program, Greater Ohio Policy Center appreciates the work of the Ohio Department of Development to create guidelines that will usher in the program. Though these guidelines are temporary, we know that communities across Ohio are eager for the opportunity to access these funds and begin the important work of remediating the thousands of brownfield sites throughout Ohio" said Jason Warner, Director of Strategic Engagement at Greater Ohio Policy Center.

"That is why we are excited for the opportunity to educate the public on the new program during our January webinar," said Warner.

"Greater Ohio Policy Center has proudly advocated for brownfields grant funding for nearly a decade. Since the creation of the BRF in June 2021, we have been hard at work. We have developed www.ohiobrownfields.com, a one-stop-shop website with information about the BRF and resources for brownfield redevelopment. We have created a directory of experts communities can turn to for economic development advising, site testing, site preparation, construction, financing, and other expertise. We also provided suggestions to the State on ways to design the program,” said Aaron Clapper, Senior Manager of Outreach and Projects at Greater Ohio Policy Center.

"We welcome the opportunity to take the next step forward, and work with the Ohio Department of Development to see that the BRF is fully utilized," said Clapper.

The Brownfield Remediation Fund is a one-time, $350 million grant program created in the 2021 state budget to fund the clean-up and redevelopment of brownfield sites across the state of Ohio. Greater Ohio Policy Center (GOPC) has been the leading advocate for the dedication of funding for brownfield clean-up since the end of the Clean Ohio Revitalization Fund (CORF) in 2013. Though permanent rules will still need to be approved by the Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review (JCARR), the publication of these emergency rules for the BRF will allow communities to seek funds for the identification and clean-up of brownfield sites.

GOPC will host a webinar on January 12 at 11:00am with the Ohio Department of Development (ODOD) focused on the new Brownfield Remediation Fund and how entities can apply for funding. Be sure to register now for this exciting opportunity to learn first-hand from ODOD about the new rules and how the BRF will operate.