Brownfields Recycling Program

Planning and conservation › Land and development › Brownfields Recycling Program

Metro is working to enhance the efficient use of land through redevelopment of underutilized properties, while providing an economic stimulus and other benefits to communities.

What is a brownfield?

Brownfields are underutilized properties that have a potential for expansion or revitalization; however, their redevelopment may be complicated by actual or perceived environmental contamination. These sites are typically locations of old gas stations, dry cleaners, auto-related businesses or industrial sites, to name a few.

Restoration – Reinvestment – Revitalization

Cleanup and reuse of brownfields reinforce the region’s goal to enhance the efficient use of land and protect surrounding farmland and natural areas. Restoring and reinvesting in these properties takes development pressures off of undeveloped, open land, and both improves and protects the environment. Moreover, brownfield recycling in the region’s urban centers generates additional tax revenues for local governments, takes advantage of existing utility and transportation infrastructure, and increases the quality of life for area residents by providing opportunities for job growth, the creation of affordable housing, parks and open spaces, and elimination of health risks.

Resources for brownfields recycling

Metro is committed to fostering redevelopment of underutilized land and promoting revitalization of neighborhoods in the region. With funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Metro developed the Brownfields Recycling Program to enhance the efficient use of land through redevelopment of brownfield sites.

In collaboration with local jurisdictions and region experts, the Brownfields Recycling Program maintains a regionwide inventory of brownfields, conducts environmental site assessments, provides technical assistance and helps to identify sources of funding for the cleanup and redevelopment.

If you are interested in learning more about the opportunities available through the brownfield recycling program, Metro conducts informational meetings and technical workshops to address questions of property owners, developers, local jurisdictions and community members regarding environmental site assessments, planning and financing site restoration and redevelopment.

If you know of a potential brownfield site or would like more information about the brownfields recycling program, contact Miranda Bateschell at 503-797-1817 or send e-mail to brownfields@oregonmetro.gov .

Apply now for assistance from Metro's Brownfields Recycling Program

Property owners and interested parties are encouraged to apply for technical or financial assistance through Metro's Brownfields Recycling Program. The program will provide assistance to determine if a site is contaminated. The current grant cycle may pay for assessment of properties with real or perceived petroleum-based contamination such as that found at old gas stations, fueling facilities, auto-related businesses and some industrial sites.

To apply for grant or other assistance, download and complete one of the forms below and return to Metro:

Attn: Brownfields Recyling Program
600 NE Grand Ave. Portland, OR 97232

Need assistance?

Brownfields Recycling Program
503-797-1839 | 503-797-1930 fax
brownfields@oregonmetro.gov

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