WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced new federal funds for Reading and Cincinnati from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Brownfields Program. This program helps communities assess, clean, and redevelop the contaminated land of former industrial and commercial properties, boosting local economies and protecting public health and the environment.
 
“The redevelopment of contaminated brownfield sites is an opportunity for new growth for communities across Ohio,” Brown said. “These funds will help support revitalization efforts critical to the safety and economic success of Hamilton County.”
 
The awards benefiting Hamilton County are as follows:
 
City of Reading: The City of Reading will receive a $200,000 hazardous substances grant and a $200,000 petroleum grant to conduct site assessments, prepare cleanup plans, and support community outreach activities.

Ohio Environmental Protection Agency: The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency will receive a $200,000 petroleum grant for activities in Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Toledo, including the execution of up to five site environmental site assessments, the preparation of two cleanup plans, and the support of community outreach activities.
 
Brown is a cosponsor of the Brownfields Utilization, Investment, and Local Development (BUILD) Act, legislation that would modernize and improve key elements of the Brownfields Program by providing additional tools and resources to communities working to redevelop brownfields.

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