EPA Administrator Regan Issues Statement on West Virginia v. Environmental Protection Agency

Today, in response to the Supreme Court ruling in West Virginia v. Environmental Protection Agency, EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan issued the following statement: "As a public health agency, EPA's number one responsibility is to protect people's health, especially those who are on the front lines of environmental pollution. Make no mistake: we will never waver from that responsibility. While I am deeply disappointed by the Supreme Court's decision, we are committed to using the full scope of EPA's authorities to protect communities and reduce the pollution that is driving climate change. We will move forward to provide certainty and transparency for the energy sector, which will support the industry's ongoing efforts to grow our clean energy economy.  At this moment, when the impacts of the climate crisis are becoming ever more disruptive, costing billions of dollars every year from floods, wildfires, droughts and sea level rise, and jeopardizing the safety of millions of Americans, the Court's ruling is disheartening. Ambitious climate action presents a singular opportunity to ensure U.S. global competitiveness, create jobs, lower costs for families, and protect people's health and wellbeing, especially those who've long suffered the burden of inaction. EPA will move forward with lawfully setting and implementing environmental standards that meet our obligation to protect all people and all communities from environmental harm."

 

 

 

 

If you would rather not receive future communications from US EPA, Office of Public Engagement, let us know by clicking here.
US EPA, Office of Public Engagement, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460 United States

Issued: Jun 30, 2022 (1:51pm EDT)

If you wish to unsubscribe please do so here: https://epa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=20300&unsub=1&hide_page_content=1

Asbury Park to Benefit from Part of $6.5 Million in EPA Brownfields-Specific Funding Going to New Jersey Communities

Asbury Park to Benefit from Part of $6.5 Million in EPA Brownfields-Specific Funding Going to New Jersey Communities

 

Contact Information: John Senn, 212-637-3662, senn.john@epa.gov

NEW YORK (June 30, 2022) – Asbury Park, N.J., will benefit from the more than $250 million in funding recently awarded across the country to 265 communities. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Deputy Administrator Janet McCabe and Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia were joined today by U.S. Representative Frank Pallone and Asbury Park Mayor John Moor to highlight the important work to be conducted in Asbury Park, N.J. using part of this funding. New Jersey communities received about $6.5 of that money, including a $500,000 grant to the City of Asbury Park. The funding is in part from President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides a total of $1.5 billion to advance environmental justice, spur economic revitalization, and create jobs by cleaning up contaminated, polluted, or hazardous brownfield properties.

The City of Asbury Park will receive a $500,000 grant to clean up four sites on Springwood Avenue and Ridge Avenue. The four properties were used for commercial and residential purposes from 1905 to the early 2000s and have been vacant for the past two decades. These sites are contaminated with fill containing harmful pollutants like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, metals, and volatile organic compounds. Grant funds for the four properties will also be used to conduct community outreach activities. In 2016, Asbury Park received a $400,000 Brownfields assessment grant, and since 1995, EPA has awarded $72,989,207 in Brownfields grants to entities in New Jersey.

The Brownfields Program advances President Biden's Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver at least 40 percent of the benefits of certain government programs to disadvantaged communities. Approximately 86 percent of the communities selected to receive funding as part of today's announcement have proposed projects in historically underserved areas.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan said, "EPA's Brownfields Program breathes new life into communities by helping to turn contaminated and potentially dangerous sites into productive economic contributors. Thanks to President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are significantly ramping up our investments in communities, with the bulk of our funding going to places that have been overburdened and underserved for far too long."

"Asbury Park will benefit from the powerful tool of brownfields, which helps overburdened communities in New Jersey address local inequities by providing a means to revitalize properties and promote environmental health, economic growth, and job creation," said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. "The Brownfields program transforms communities, and BIL gives the program a huge infusion of funding with a historic $1.5 billion dollars that will be leveraged to make a real and lasting on-the-ground difference for communities across the country."

 

Applicants selected for funding in New Jersey this year are:

• City of Asbury Park, Cleanup Grant of $500,000
• Camden Redevelopment Agency, Revolving Loan Fund Supplemental Grant of $3,500,000
• Hamilton Township, Cleanup Grant of $500,000
• New Jersey Economic Development Authority, Assessment Grant of $2,000,000 for projects statewide

The national list of the applicants selected for funding is available here: https://www.epa.gov/brownfields/applicants-selected-fy-2022-brownfields-assessment-rlf-cleanup-arc-grants-and-rlf

Since its inception in 1995, EPA's investments in brownfield sites have leveraged more than $35 billion in cleanup and redevelopment. This has led to significant benefits for communities across the country. For example:

• To date, this funding has led to more than 183,000 jobs in cleanup, construction, and redevelopment and more than 9,500 properties have been made ready for reuse.
• Based on grant recipient reporting, recipients leveraged on average $20.43 for each EPA Brownfields dollar and 10.3 jobs per $100,000 of EPA Brownfields Grant funds expended on assessment, cleanup, and revolving loan fund cooperative agreements.
• In addition, an academic peer-reviewed study has found that residential properties near brownfield sites increased in value by 5% to 15% as a result of cleanup activities.
• Finally, analyzing data near 48 brownfields, EPA found an estimated $29 million to $97 million in additional tax revenue for local governments in a single year after cleanup—2 to 7 times more than the $12.4 million EPA contributed to the cleanup of those brownfields sites.

Sen. Cory Booker said: "During my time as Mayor and as Senator, I have seen firsthand how the Brownfields program revitalizes communities. I am proud that the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is delivering significant investment in restoring brownfield sites across New Jersey. These federal dollars will protect the health and well-being of communities and promote unrealized economic opportunity."

Sen. Bob Menendez said: "I have long championed critical federal programs like Brownfields and Superfund that help clean up contaminated waste sites, and I'm proud to have helped secure this funding in the bipartisan infrastructure bill. Today's announcement will help communities across the state not only protect the environment and improve public health, but also spur new growth and economic opportunity for residents. I thank the Biden Administration for their continued support for our families and their steadfast commitment to environmental justice for underserved communities and communities of color that too often shoulder the burden of legacy pollution."

Rep. Frank Pallone said: "It's great to be in Asbury Park today to highlight the federal funding the town will receive to clean up Brownfield sites. Thanks to this funding, the community will be able to repurpose the land and return it to good use. These funds, predominantly from our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will allow families across New Jersey to rest a little easier knowing that some of the most contaminated sites in their area will soon be cleaned up, revitalized, and generating new jobs and economic opportunities. I'm grateful to EPA Deputy Administrator Janet McCabe, EPA Region 2 Administrator Lisa Garcia, and everyone else who joined us today. Together with the Biden Administration, Congress has been able to prioritize the Brownfields program, and I'll keep fighting to ensure every community – particularly those that have been historically overlooked and underserved – receives the resources they need."

"Our path toward continued, equitable economic growth is paved by the steps we take today to clean up and cultivate a healthy, safe environment," said New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. "This funding will allow New Jersey to transform brownfields into vibrant, productive assets, especially in under-resourced communities. Investments in the remediation of these sites are investments in future opportunities for all New Jersey residents and businesses."

"Economic development and environmental protection go hand-in-hand, and in New Jersey, the EPA Brownfields Community-wide Assessment Grant serves as a vital resource for revitalizing vacant properties," said New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette. "For too long, financial barriers have prevented entities from developing contaminated sites due to the limited funding available for site assessments, planning, and cleanup. Today's funding announcement will allow the DEP and the EDA to increase current programmatic efforts to redevelop and remediate contaminated sites, sparking community-wide economic revitalization and furthering Governor Murphy's commitment to a stronger and fairer New Jersey economy and environment."

"The City of Asbury Park is grateful to be the recipient of a $500,000 EPA Brownfields Clean Up Grant," said Mayor John Moor, "This grant complements previous EPA Brownfield and Petroleum assessment grants we received which allowed us to do the necessary research and soil testing required to determine and assess contamination. We look forward to cleaning up these lots and putting them back into productive use."

Additional Background

A brownfield is a property for which the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant. Redevelopment made possible through the program includes everything from grocery stores and affordable housing to health centers, museums, greenways, and solar farms.    

The next National Brownfields Training Conference will be held on August 16-19, 2022 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Offered every two years, this conference is the largest gathering of stakeholders focused on cleaning up and reusing former commercial and industrial properties. EPA co-sponsors this event with the International City/County Management Association (ICMA). Conference registration is open at www.brownfields2022.org.

For more on Brownfields Grants: https://www.epa.gov/brownfields/types-brownfields-grant-funding

For more on EPA's Brownfields Program: https://www.epa.gov/brownfields

 

22-049                                                                         ###

 

To unsubscribe or change your settings click here:
https://epa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=subscribe&code=WYVZstfutHnxd9EB-WPyTrJI-RyGYYiZCA

Issued: Jun 27, 2022 (1:33pm EDT)

If you wish to unsubscribe please do so here: https://epa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=20300&unsub=1&hide_page_content=1

Niagara County to Receive $3.9 Million in Brownfields-Specific Funding to Address Contaminated Sites

Niagara County to Receive $3.9 Million in Brownfields-Specific Funding to Address Contaminated Sites

 

Contact Information: John Senn, 212-637-3662, senn.john@epa.gov

 
NEW YORK (June 27, 2022) – Niagara County in New York will benefit from the more than $250 million in funding recently awarded across the country to 265 communities. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia was joined today by U.S. Representative Brian Higgins to highlight the important work to be conducted in Niagara County using part of this funding. New York communities received about $10.5 of that money, including a $3.9 million grant to Niagara County. The funding is in part from President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides a total of $1.5 billion to advance environmental justice, spur economic revitalization, and create jobs by cleaning up contaminated, polluted, or hazardous brownfield properties.

EPA will be awarding Niagara County a Revolving Loan Fund grant that supplements previous Brownfields grant funding the Agency awarded to the County. These new funds will be used to for loans and subgrants for site cleanups throughout the County. Priority sites for this funding include a former junkyard, a vacant office building, and a former industrial building.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan said, "EPA's Brownfields Program breathes new life into communities by helping to turn contaminated and potentially dangerous sites into productive economic contributors. Thanks to President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are significantly ramping up our investments in communities, with the bulk of our funding going to places that have been overburdened and underserved for far too long."

"Niagara County will benefit from the powerful tool of brownfields, which helps overburdened communities in New York address local inequities by providing a means to revitalize properties and promote environmental health, economic growth, and job creation," said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. "The Brownfields program transforms communities, and BIL gives the program a huge infusion of funding with a historic $1.5 billion dollars that will be leveraged to make a real and lasting on-the-ground difference for communities across the country."

Brownfield projects can range from cleaning up buildings with asbestos or lead contamination, to assessing and cleaning up abandoned properties that once managed dangerous chemicals. Once cleaned up, former brownfield properties can be redeveloped into productive uses such as grocery stores, affordable housing, health centers, museums, parks, and solar farms.

The Brownfields Program advances President Biden's Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver at least 40 percent of the benefits of certain government programs to disadvantaged communities. Approximately 86 percent of the communities selected to receive this funding have proposed projects in historically underserved areas. EPA's Brownfields grants and other technical assistance programs like the RE-Powering America's Land Initiative are also helping to build the clean energy economy.

This announcement includes approximately $180 million from the historic $1.5 billion investment from President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help turn brownfield sites across the nation into hubs of economic growth and job creation, along with more than $75 million from Fiscal Year 2022 appropriations. The national list of the applicants selected for funding is available here: https://www.epa.gov/brownfields/applicants-selected-fy-2022-brownfields-assessment-rlf-cleanup-arc-grants-and-rlf

Since its inception in 1995, EPA's investments in brownfield sites have leveraged more than $35 billion in cleanup and redevelopment. This has led to significant benefits for communities across the country. For example:

• To date, this funding has led to more than 183,000 jobs in cleanup, construction, and redevelopment and more than 9,500 properties have been made ready for reuse.
• Based on grant recipient reporting, recipients leveraged on average $20.43 for each EPA Brownfields dollar and 10.3 jobs per $100,000 of EPA Brownfields Grant funds expended on assessment, cleanup, and revolving loan fund cooperative agreements.
• In addition, an academic peer-reviewed study has found that residential properties near brownfield sites increased in value by 5% to 15% as a result of cleanup activities.
• Finally, analyzing data near 48 brownfields, EPA found an estimated $29 million to $97 million in additional tax revenue for local governments in a single year after cleanup—2 to 7 times more than the $12.4 million EPA contributed to the cleanup of those brownfields sites.

"The Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Law that I led to passage included a historic $1.5 billion for the EPA's Brownfields program, and now those dollars are jumpstarting long-delayed clean-ups at toxic sites from the Mohawk Valley to Niagara County," said Sen. Chuck Schumer. "Cleaning up these polluted sites is critical to breathing new life into these communities to attract businesses and create new good-paying jobs. This $10.5 million federal investment will not only ensure that municipalities will not have to take on debt to clean up these waste sites, but will protect the health of our families, environment, and will accelerate economic recovery."

"Brownfields are a serious threat to the environment and to public health," said Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand. "Cleaning them up and turning them into usable spaces like parks, recreation facilities, and housing revitalizes our communities and spurs local economic development. I'm proud to have fought to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that helped provide the funding for this cleanup and I applaud EPA for working to address contamination across New York State."

"The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is laying the foundation for healthier, cleaner and vibrant communities, while supporting jobs right here at home," said Rep. Brian Higgins. "This $4 million federal investment, represents a significant boost to a program that will play a critical role in transitioning Niagara County's old, industrial sites to destinations that are new, exciting and welcoming to the public and to economic opportunities."

"We thank the Biden Administration, EPA Administrator Regan, and Regional Administrator Garcia for their $10 million investment in New York and supporting federal brownfield cleanup programs as critical tools to remediate pollution and revitalize communities," New York Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said. "This federal investment will bolster New York State's Brownfield Cleanup Program, which continues to get stronger with unwavering support from Governor Hochul's recent 10-year extension of the initiative. In New York we have countless examples of how Brownfield cleanups can turn formerly abandoned hazardous sites, often community eyesores, into vibrant, usable spaces for businesses, housing, and parks development. With this new influx of support, New York will continue to set an example of how investing in our communities yields valuable and timeless results."  

Niagara County Chairwoman Rebecca Wydysh said: "Niagara County has been a leader on brownfield efforts and this grant award demonstrates our commitment and progress towards site remediation and redevelopment."

New York State Sen. Rob Ortt said: "Niagara County and Western New York is currently in the midst of a rebirth with new and exciting projects emerging from once polluted parcels of land. Our region, which was built on the industrial sector, is still recovering from environmental mistakes of the past. But with funding from programs like the Revolving Loan Supplemental Grant Fund, and the Brownfield Tax Credit at the state level, we are making tremendous strides forward toward cleaning up our communities and repurposing once vacant land for new commercial and residential usage. I thank the bipartisan efforts at our federal level for helping to make this funding available to our county, and I look forward to the new projects that are created from this program."

Additional Background

A brownfield is a property for which the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant. Redevelopment made possible through the program includes everything from grocery stores and affordable housing to health centers, museums, greenways, and solar farms.    

The next National Brownfields Training Conference will be held on August 16-19, 2022 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Offered every two years, this conference is the largest gathering of stakeholders focused on cleaning up and reusing former commercial and industrial properties. EPA co-sponsors this event with the International City/County Management Association (ICMA). Conference registration is open at www.brownfields2022.org.

For more on Brownfields Grants: https://www.epa.gov/brownfields/types-brownfields-grant-funding

For more on EPA's Brownfields Program: https://www.epa.gov/brownfields

 

22-047                                                                         ###

 

To unsubscribe or change your settings click here:
https://epa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=subscribe&code=vm9cH9bHFHm0d54B9-e-W7E5thzUILVoLg

Issued: Jun 21, 2022 (12:42pm EDT)

If you wish to unsubscribe please do so here: https://epa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=20300&unsub=1&hide_page_content=1

Paterson to Benefit from Part of $6.5 Million in EPA Brownfields-Specific Funding Going to New Jersey Communities

Paterson to Benefit from Part of $6.5 Million in EPA Brownfields-Specific Funding Going to New Jersey Communities

 

Contact Information: John Senn, 212-637-3662, senn.john@epa.gov

NEW YORK (June 21, 2022) – Paterson, N.J. will benefit from the more than $250 million in funding recently awarded across the country to 265 communities. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia was joined today by U.S. Representative Bill Pascrell, Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh and New Jersey Economic Development Authority's Tim Sullivan to highlight the important work to be conducted in Paterson, N.J. using part of this funding. New Jersey communities received about $6.5 of that money, including a $2 million grant to New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) to be used in communities like Paterson, N.J. The funding is in part from President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides a total of $1.5 billion to advance environmental justice, spur economic revitalization, and create jobs by cleaning up contaminated, polluted, or hazardous brownfield properties.

NJEDA is receiving a $2 million grant to assess 73 contaminated sites in communities throughout the state. Brownfield sites in the 13 municipalities designated as high priority by the State of New Jersey due to historic disinvestment will be prioritized for work under this grant. In addition to Paterson, those municipalities are Atlantic City, Bayonne, Bridgeton, Camden, Jersey City, Millville, Newark, Paulsboro, Perth Amboy, Salem, Trenton, and Vineland. Grant funds also will be used to prepare cleanup and reuse plans and conduct community outreach.

The Brownfields Program advances President Biden's Justice40 Initiative, which aims to deliver at least 40 percent of the benefits of certain government programs to disadvantaged communities. Approximately 86 percent of the communities selected to receive funding as part of today's announcement have proposed projects in historically underserved areas.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan said, "EPA's Brownfields Program breathes new life into communities by helping to turn contaminated and potentially dangerous sites into productive economic contributors. Thanks to President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are significantly ramping up our investments in communities, with the bulk of our funding going to places that have been overburdened and underserved for far too long."

"Paterson will benefit from the powerful tool of brownfields, which helps overburdened communities in New Jersey address local inequities by providing a means to revitalize properties and promote environmental health, economic growth, and job creation," said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. "The Brownfields program transforms communities, and BIL gives the program a huge infusion of funding with a historic $1.5 billion dollars that will be leveraged to make a real and lasting on-the-ground difference for communities across the country."

Applicants selected for funding in New Jersey this year are:

• City of Asbury Park, Cleanup Grant of $500,000
• Camden Redevelopment Agency, Revolving Loan Fund Supplemental Grant of $3,500,000
• Hamilton Township, Cleanup Grant of $500,000
• New Jersey Economic Development Authority, Assessment Grant of $2,000,000 for projects statewide

The national list of the applicants selected for funding is available here: https://www.epa.gov/brownfields/applicants-selected-fy-2022-brownfields-assessment-rlf-cleanup-arc-grants-and-rlf

Since its inception in 1995, EPA's investments in brownfield sites have leveraged more than $35 billion in cleanup and redevelopment. This has led to significant benefits for communities across the country. For example:

• To date, this funding has led to more than 183,000 jobs in cleanup, construction, and redevelopment and more than 9,500 properties have been made ready for reuse.
• Based on grant recipient reporting, recipients leveraged on average $20.43 for each EPA Brownfields dollar and 10.3 jobs per $100,000 of EPA Brownfields Grant funds expended on assessment, cleanup, and revolving loan fund cooperative agreements.
• In addition, an academic peer-reviewed study has found that residential properties near brownfield sites increased in value by 5% to 15% as a result of cleanup activities.
• Finally, analyzing data near 48 brownfields, EPA found an estimated $29 million to $97 million in additional tax revenue for local governments in a single year after cleanup—2 to 7 times more than the $12.4 million EPA contributed to the cleanup of those brownfields sites.

Sen. Cory Booker said: "During my time as Mayor and as Senator, I have seen firsthand how the Brownfields program revitalizes communities. I am proud that the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is delivering significant investment in restoring brownfield sites across New Jersey. These federal dollars will protect the health and well-being of communities and promote unrealized economic opportunity."

Sen. Bob Menendez said: "I have long championed critical federal programs like Brownfields and Superfund that help clean up contaminated waste sites, and I'm proud to have helped secure this funding in the bipartisan infrastructure bill. Today's announcement will help communities across the state not only protect the environment and improve public health, but also spur new growth and economic opportunity for residents. I thank the Biden Administration for their continued support for our families and their steadfast commitment to environmental justice for underserved communities and communities of color that too often shoulder the burden of legacy pollution."

"This federal support for New Jersey is an important tool for promoting public safety and protecting our air, land, and water. At the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park and all across our state, the Biden Administration and our Democratic Congress are investing in your environment and improving quality of life," said Congressman Pascrell, a cosponsor of the Green New Deal and author of the law establishing the Great Falls as a national park. "The Great Falls' ATP site is a prime example of a landmark in need of refurbishment and preservation. Its historic value has been clouded by years of industrial waste and decay. With this federal investment in our state, we will continue the necessary work of cleaning up sites like this for New Jerseyans. I commend our mayor, Andre Sayegh, for his leadership and perseverance on this front. I also want to thank my friends at the EPA, NJDEP, and NJEDA for all they've done and continue to do for our communities. This funding is tremendous news for Paterson, for New Jersey, and for our environment. Let's get to work."

"Our path toward continued, equitable economic growth is paved by the steps we take today to clean up and cultivate a healthy, safe environment," said New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. "This funding will allow New Jersey to transform brownfields into vibrant, productive assets, especially in under-resourced communities. Investments in the remediation of these sites are investments in future opportunities for all New Jersey residents and businesses."

"Economic development and environmental protection go hand-in-hand, and in New Jersey, the EPA Brownfields Community-wide Assessment Grant serves as a vital resource for revitalizing vacant properties," said New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette. "For too long, financial barriers have prevented entities from developing contaminated sites due to the limited funding available for site assessments, planning, and cleanup. Today's funding announcement will allow the DEP and the EDA to increase current programmatic efforts to redevelop and remediate contaminated sites, sparking community-wide economic revitalization and furthering Governor Murphy's commitment to a stronger and fairer New Jersey economy and environment."

"Supporting communities as they work to clean up, revitalize, and redevelop contaminated properties is critical for stimulating economic growth and building a stronger and fairer New Jersey economy," said NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. "Under Governor Murphy's leadership, New Jersey has made great strides to ensure the equitable environmental and economic well-being of every New Jersey resident, regardless of zip-code. Funding from the EPA Brownfields Community-wide Assessment Grant will allow the NJEDA to provide greater support for communities looking to remediate vacant and underutilized properties, therefore prioritizing the environmental, social, and economic needs of New Jersey's neighborhoods and distressed communities."

Paterson Mayor André Sayegh said: "We are extremely pleased with Paterson's ongoing partnerships with the US EPA Region 2, the NJ DEP and NJ EDA. This and other grant funding greatly assists us to take additional steps toward the reclamation of this highly significant early industrial site where Paterson started in 1792. Only through the environmental remediation of the site can it take its place as part of the Great Falls National Historical Park. This is a great step toward our shared vision and we are grateful for the continued support from our partners at the EPA, NJ DEP, and NJ EDA."

 

Additional Background

A brownfield is a property for which the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant. Redevelopment made possible through the program includes everything from grocery stores and affordable housing to health centers, museums, greenways, and solar farms.   

The next National Brownfields Training Conference will be held on August 16-19, 2022 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Offered every two years, this conference is the largest gathering of stakeholders focused on cleaning up and reusing former commercial and industrial properties. EPA co-sponsors this event with the International City/County Management Association (ICMA). Conference registration is open at www.brownfields2022.org.

For more on Brownfields Grants: https://www.epa.gov/brownfields/types-brownfields-grant-funding

For more on EPA's Brownfields Program: https://www.epa.gov/brownfields

 

22-045                                                                         ###

 

To unsubscribe or change your settings click here:
https://epa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=subscribe&code=JqMckEBBlHm8d4QBsbZiS9zkEbN8rsmJZw

EPA Announces New Drinking Water Health Advisories for PFAS Chemicals,

                       

 

 

EPA Announces New Drinking Water Health Advisories for PFAS Chemicals, $1 Billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding to Strengthen Health Protections    Agency establishes new health advisories for GenX and PFBS and lowers health advisories for PFOA and PFOS Contact: EPA Press Office, press@epa.gov WASHINGTON (June 15, 2022) Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released four drinking water health advisories for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the latest action under President Biden's action plan to deliver clean water and Administrator Regan's PFAS Strategic Roadmap. EPA also announced that it is inviting states and territories to apply for $1 billion – the first of $5 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law grant funding – to address PFAS and other emerging contaminants in drinking water, specifically in small or disadvantaged communities. These actions build on EPA's progress to safeguard communities from PFAS pollution and scientifically inform upcoming efforts, including EPA's forthcoming proposed National Primary Drinking Water Regulation for PFOA and PFOS, which EPA will release in the fall of 2022. "People on the front-lines of PFAS contamination have suffered for far too long. That's why EPA is taking aggressive action as part of a whole-of-government approach to prevent these chemicals from entering the environment and to help protect concerned families from this pervasive challenge," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. "Thanks to President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are also investing $1 billion to reduce PFAS and other emerging contaminants in drinking water." "Today's actions highlight EPA's commitment to use the best available science to tackle PFAS pollution, protect public health, and provide critical information quickly and transparently," said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox. "EPA is also demonstrating its commitment to harmonize policies that strengthen public health protections with infrastructure funding to help communities—especially disadvantaged communities—deliver safe water." Assistant Administrator Fox announced these actions at the 3rd National PFAS Conference in Wilmington, North Carolina.  $1 Billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding As part of a government-wide effort to confront PFAS pollution, EPA is making available $1 billion in grant funding through President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help communities that are on the frontlines of PFAS contamination, the first of $5 billion through the Law that can be used to reduce PFAS in drinking water in communities facing disproportionate impacts. These funds can be used in small or disadvantaged communities to address emerging contaminants like PFAS in drinking water through actions such as technical assistance, water quality testing, contractor training, and installation of centralized treatment technologies and systems. EPA will be reaching out to states and territories with information on how to submit their letter of intent to participate in this new grant program. EPA will also consult with Tribes and Alaskan Native Villages regarding the Tribal set-aside for this grant program. This funding complements $3.4 billion in funding that is going through the Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRFs) and $3.2 billion through the Clean Water SRFs that can also be used to address PFAS in water this year. Lifetime Drinking Water Health Advisories for Four PFAS The agency is releasing PFAS health advisories in light of newly available science and in accordance with EPA's responsibility to protect public health. These advisories indicate the level of drinking water contamination below which adverse health effects are not expected to occur. Health advisories provide technical information that federal, state, and local officials can use to inform the development of monitoring plans, investments in treatment solutions, and future policies to protect the public from PFAS exposure. EPA's lifetime health advisories identify levels to protect all people, including sensitive populations and life stages, from adverse health effects resulting from a lifetime of exposure to these PFAS in drinking water. EPA's lifetime health advisories also take into account other potential sources of exposure to these PFAS beyond drinking water (for example, food, air, consumer products, etc.), which provides an additional layer of protection.    EPA is issuing interim, updated drinking water health advisories for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) that replace those EPA issued in 2016. The updated advisory levels, which are based on new science and consider lifetime exposure, indicate that some negative health effects may occur with concentrations of PFOA or PFOS in water that are near zero and below EPA's ability to detect at this time. The lower the level of PFOA and PFOS, the lower the risk to public health. EPA recommends states, Tribes, territories, and drinking water utilities that detect PFOA and PFOS take steps to reduce exposure. Most uses of PFOA and PFOS were voluntarily phased out by U.S. manufacturers, although there are a limited number of ongoing uses, and these chemicals remain in the environment due to their lack of degradation. For the first time, EPA is issuing final health advisories for perfluorobutane sulfonic acid and its potassium salt (PFBS) and for hexafluoropropylene oxide (HFPO) dimer acid and its ammonium salt ("GenX" chemicals). In chemical and product manufacturing, GenX chemicals are considered a replacement for PFOA, and PFBS is considered a replacement for PFOS. The GenX chemicals and PFBS health advisory levels are well above the level of detection, based on risk analyses in recent scientific studies.  The agency's new health advisories provide technical information that federal, state, and local agencies can use to inform actions to address PFAS in drinking water, including water quality monitoring, optimization of existing technologies that reduce PFAS, and strategies to reduce exposure to these substances. EPA encourages states, Tribes, territories, drinking water utilities, and community leaders that find PFAS in their drinking water to take steps to inform residents, undertake additional monitoring to assess the level, scope, and source of contamination, and examine steps to reduce exposure. Individuals concerned about levels of PFAS found in their drinking water should consider actions that may reduce exposure, including installing a home or point of use filter. Next Steps EPA is moving forward with proposing a PFAS National Drinking Water Regulation in fall 2022. As EPA develops this proposed rule, the agency is also evaluating additional PFAS beyond PFOA and PFOS and considering actions to address groups of PFAS. The interim health advisories will provide guidance to states, Tribes, and water systems for the period prior to the regulation going into effect.   The EPA's work to identify and confront the risks that PFAS pose to human health and the environment is a key component in the Biden-Harris Administration whole-of-government approach to confronting these emerging contaminants. This strategy includes steps by the Food and Drug Administration to increase testing for PFAS in food and packaging, by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to help dairy farmers address contamination of livestock, and by the Department of Defense to clean-up contaminated military installations and the elimination of unnecessary PFAS uses.  To receive grant funding announced today through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, states and territories should submit a letter of intent by August 15, 2022. To provide the public with more information about these actions, EPA will be hosting a webinar on June 23, 2022 at 12:00 pm Eastern. Learn more or register for the event. PFAS Strategic Roadmap  Today's actions achieve another key commitment as the agency implements the October 2021 PFAS Strategic Roadmap. Under the Roadmap, EPA is working across the agency to protect the public from the health impacts of PFAS. EPA has undertaken a number of actions to deliver progress on PFAS including:  Issuing the fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule to improve EPA's understanding of the frequency that 29 PFAS are found in the nation's drinking water systems and at what levels.  Issuing the first Toxic Substances Control Act PFAS test order under the National PFAS Testing Strategy;   Adding five PFAS to EPA's contaminated site cleanup tables;  Publishing draft aquatic life water quality criteria for PFOA and PFOS;  Issuing a memo to proactively address PFAS in Clean Water Act permitting; and  Publishing a new draft total adsorbable fluorine wastewater method.

 

 

 

 

 

If you would rather not receive future communications from US EPA, Office of Public Engagement, let us know by clicking here.
US EPA, Office of Public Engagement, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460 United States

Issued: Jun 10, 2022 (12:31pm EDT)

If you wish to unsubscribe please do so here: https://epa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=20300&unsub=1&hide_page_content=1

Asbestos Piles to be Removed from TechCity Site in Ulster County, New York Under EPA Settlement

Contact: Stephen McBay, (212)-637-3672, mcbay.stephen@epa.gov

NEW YORK (June 9, 2022) - Asbestos piles will now be removed from the Tech City site, under a June 7, 2022, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) agreement with developer iPark 87, LLC requiring it to remove asbestos contamination from the site in Ulster County, New York. The site is being cleaned up under EPA's Superfund program.

"EPA has worked diligently to get the asbestos identified at TechCity cleaned up and this settlement is key to that process," said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. "By working closely with the iPark 87, LLC, as well as our state and local partners, this cleanup will help put the site back into productive use. EPA collaborates with property owners and communities to reclaim and reuse formerly contaminated land to boost local economies and create jobs."

Under the settlement, iPark 87, LLC has agreed to remove three large outdoor piles of demolition debris contaminated with asbestos and will abate asbestos in one building (building 1). Exposure to asbestos can lead to a debilitating lung disease called asbestosis, a rare cancer of the chest and abdominal lining called mesothelioma, and various other cancers. EPA properly stabilized the site while the agency pursued the settlement. In addition, EPA will recover all its past costs as well as the cost of overseeing this work. After entering into the settlement, the company purchased most of the site property, with the intention of developing it into a variety of ventures including highlighting local businesses.

The site is a former IBM computer manufacturing facility that had been in operation for more than 30 years until 1998, when it was sold to companies affiliated with Mr. Alan Ginsberg, who re-branded the facility as TechCity and operated it as a multi-tenant industrial park. Between 2015 and 2016, improper asbestos abatement and demolition of buildings occurred at the site. In May 2017, Ulster County requested EPA assistance with addressing the conditions at the site. EPA attempted to negotiate with the potentially responsible parties to remove asbestos without success. In March 2020, EPA mobilized to the site to undertake a portion of the removal work, which included demolition of an asbestos-contaminated, partially demolished structure identified as building 2, disposal of approximately 200 tons of asbestos-contaminated material, and the securing of building 1.

On July 15, 2021, Ulster County filed an action to foreclose on 18 parcels at the site for failure to pay over $12 million in property taxes. In September 2021, EPA unilaterally issued an administrative order to six potentially responsible parties directing them to remove the three large piles and abate building 1. Despite initial compliance, the cleanup work did not proceed. EPA then secured funding to perform the work itself. In December 2021, in connection with a court-approved settlement of the County foreclosure action, iPark 87, LLC indicated its intention to purchase and redevelop the site, perform the remaining asbestos cleanup work, and reimburse EPA's costs. The settlement will mean that public funds will no longer be needed for the cleanup.

For additional background, visit the EPA's Tech City Response Page.

Follow EPA Region 2 on Twitter and Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.

22-043

 

To unsubscribe or change your settings click here:
https://epa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=subscribe&code=rXWuGbeu43m2d-ABYbYmS8dGbEVz9h-sJw

EPA Takes Action to Reset and Strengthen the RFS Program WASHINGTON (June 3, 2022) — Today, EPA announced several actions that will help provide a path for the sustained growth of renewable fuels and reinforce the foundation of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program. Together, these actions reflect the Biden Administration's commitment to reset and strengthen the RFS, bolster our nation's energy security, and support homegrown biofuel alternatives to oil for transportation fuel. "At EPA, we are laser-focused on providing more options for consumers at the pump, and today we are taking steps to increase the availability of homegrown biofuels," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. "Today's actions will help to reduce our reliance on oil and put the RFS program back on track after years of challenges and mismanagement. We remain committed to working with all RFS stakeholders to build on today's actions and deliver certainty and stability in the RFS program." EPA is taking action today pursuant to a consent decree agreement that requires EPA to finalize RFS volumes for 2021 and 2022 no later than June 3, 2022. Together with other steps announced today, EPA's actions will help reduce our dependence on oil and diversify our fuel supply by increasing production of domestically produced biofuels. In the final volumes, EPA adjusted the final biofuel volumes for 2021 to reflect updated data on actual 2021 ethanol use that has become available since the proposal was issued. A summary of the final volume requirements for 2020-2022 is provided below: Final Volume Requirements for 2020-2022 (billion gallons) Category  2020  2021  2022  Cellulosic Biofuel  0.51  0.56  0.63 Biomass-Based Diesel  2.43  2.43  2.76  Advanced Biofuel  4.63  5.05  5.63  Total Renewable Fuel  17.13  18.84  20.63  Supplemental Standard  n/a  n/a  0.25  *All values are ethanol-equivalent on an energy consult basis, except for BBD which is biodiesel-equivalent In addition to finalizing the volume requirements, the rule also finalizes a regulatory framework to allow "biointermediates" to be included in the RFS program, while ensuring environmental and programmatic safeguards are in place. Biointermediates are feedstocks that have been partially converted at one facility but are then processed into an RFS-qualified biofuel at a separate facility. Providing a way for producers to utilize biointermediates may reduce biofuel production costs and expand opportunities for more cost-effective biomass-based diesel, advanced, and cellulosic biofuels. This new regulatory framework will allow new facilities looking to make advanced, innovative biofuels to qualify under the RFS program, expanding access to the program for biofuel producers and increasing compliance flexibility. Separately, and recognizing the growing importance of renewable diesel as a biofuel, earlier this year EPA proposed a rule that would find that renewable diesel and other biofuels made from canola oil would qualify as advanced biofuel under the RFS. The agency is on track to finalize this rule by the end of this year. This step to approve additional pathways for generating renewable identification numbers (RINs) under the RFS program will enable additional biofuel supplies to enter fuel markets. Small Refinery Exemption Actions Separately, EPA is announcing a suite of small refinery exemption (SRE) actions. These include a final decision to deny a set of previously pending SRE petitions spanning the 2016–2021 compliance years, a proposed rulemaking to provide an alternative schedule for small refineries to comply with their 2020 RFS obligations, and a revision to an earlier action that provides an alternate compliance approach for certain small refineries for the 2016, 2017, and/or 2018 compliance years. USDA Actions Earlier today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it is investing $700 million to help lower costs and support nearly 300 biofuel producers in 25 states who faced unexpected market losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds are being made available through the Biofuel Producer Program, which was created as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). Each agency's actions align with President Biden's commitment to promoting and advancing biofuels to help rural America and our nation's farmers, and to honor the leadership role American agriculture plays in our fight against climate change. For more information on the final volume requirements, please visit: https://www.epa.gov/renewable-fuel-standard-program/final-volume-standards-2020-2021-and-2022 For more information on the small refinery exemption decisions, please visit: https://www.epa.gov/renewable-fuel-standard-program/news-notices-and-announcements-renewable-fuel-standard

 

 

 

 

If you would rather not receive future communications from US EPA, Office of Public Engagement, let us know by clicking here.
US EPA, Office of Public Engagement, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20460 United States

Issued: Jun 2, 2022 (3:11pm EDT)

If you wish to unsubscribe please do so here: https://epa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=20300&unsub=1&hide_page_content=1

EPA to Give Puerto Rico $330,000 to Support Water Quality Monitoring for Safe

Beach Recreation

Contact Information: EPA Press Office (press@epa.gov) Tracy McIntosh, (212) 637-3633, Mcintosh.Tracy@epa.gov

NEW YORK (June 2, 2022) - Puerto Rico is among 38 states, territories, and Indian Nations that will receive U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) funding for its beach water monitoring and notification programs. The funding is being awarded under the BEACH Act. This year, EPA is expected to award about $10 million across the country, and Puerto Rico will receive $330,000 in BEACH Act funding. Since 2002 EPA's partners have used nearly $206 million in BEACH Act grants to protect beachgoers by monitoring beaches for bacteria, maintaining and operating public notification systems, identifying local pollution sources, and reporting results to EPA.

"It is always beach season in Puerto Rico, and these BEACH Act Beach grants enable our partners to ensure that beaches are safe and enjoyable for all," said Lisa F. Garcia, EPA Regional Administrator. "With this grant funding, the EPA is helping Puerto Rico monitor beach water quality and protect people's health so they can have fun without worry."

Under the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act, EPA grants money to eligible state, territorial, and Indian Nations applicants to help them and their local government partners monitor water quality at coastal and Great Lakes beaches. When bacteria levels are too high for safe swimming, these agencies notify the public by posting beach warnings or closing the beach. 

EPA's most recent Beach Report found that beaches on U.S. coasts and along the Great Lakes were open and safe for swimming 92 percent of the time in 2020. Check with your local public health authority on water conditions when making plans to go to the beach.

EPA's 2022 BEACH Act grant funding, contingent upon meeting the eligibility requirements, will be allocated to the following states, territories, and Indian Nations.

More information on grants under the BEACH Act, grant guidance, and contact information for state and local beach programs

To check on the latest closings and advisories at particular beaches, the public should contact the relevant state, tribal, or territorial beach program listed here.

Follow EPA Region 2 on Twitter and visit our Facebook.

22-040

 

 

To unsubscribe or change your settings click here:
https://epa.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=subscribe&code=8stGgXuuaHnBd9QBNE_grCnvGsACjWWvPw