Creating Community-Based Brownfield Redevelopment Strategies
By David Morley, AICP, James Schwab, FAICP, Laura Solitare
Brownfields impact communities in a variety of ways. Abandoned or dilapidated buildings on brownfield sites signal neglect even in an otherwise well-maintained neighborhood. Contaminants found on brownfield sites can pollute soil, air, and water resources on- and off-site. This poses environmental and public health threats. Safety is another issue as neglected sites are a breeding ground for illegal activities, such as dumping. Finally, brownfields are a drain on the local economy and take a serious toll on community morale, especially in low-income neighborhoods that suffer from a disproportionate number of brownfield sites.
Details
About the Authors
David Morley, AICP
David Morley, AICP, is a Research Program Manager at the American Planning Association in Chicago, where he manages and contributes to sponsored research projects; manages the development of the Research KnowledgeBase; develops, organizes, and participates in educational sessions and workshops; and writes for APA publications. Mr. Morley also edits Zoning Practice.
James Schwab, FAICP
Jim Schwab is currently an "allegedly retired" planning consultant after leaving the APA Research Department in 2017, where he served as Manager of the Hazards Planning Center from 2008. He previously had been assistant editor of Planning Magazine and senior research associate. He led the development of numerous PAS Reports on hazard-related and environmental topics as well as training programs both in the U.S. and overseas. Since 2008, he has been adjunct assistant professor in the University of Iowa School of Planning and Public Affairs, and more recently has been a certified instructor for FEMA's Emergency Management Institute.
Laura Solitare
Table of Contents
Introduction
How to Use this Guide
1. Brownfield Basics
Case Study, Bethel Center
2. The Redevelopment Process
Agriculture on Remediated Brownfields
10 Factors that Make a Brownfield Redevelopment Successful
Case Study, Vermont Transit Bus Barn
3. Community Visioning
Case Study, Mill Creek Development
Common Public Participation Techniques
Case Study, The Watershed
4. Brownfield Cleanup
Case Study, Starlight Park
Case Study, Urban Oaks Organic Farm
5. Brownfields Finance 101
Summary of Federal Brownfields Finance Programs
Case Study, Mexicantown International Welcome Center and Mercado
Next Steps
Additional Resources
Glossary
References