The City of Savannah has been selected by the Environmental Protection Agency to receive a $300,000 Brownfield Assessment Grant.

A brownfield is defined as property in which expansion, redevelopment or reuse may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant.

“Brownfields Assessment and Cleanup grants target communities that are economically disadvantaged and provide assistance where environmental cleanup and new job opportunities are needed,” said EPA Region 4 Administrator Trey Glenn. “These funds mean a great deal to these communities.”

The City intends to focus on inactive, blighted properties that may be along the MLK/Montgomery corridor between Bay Street and 52nd Street, or within a few blocks east and west of the corridor.

“Our team has worked very hard during the application process and we are excited to accept this EPA grant,” said Director of Sustainability, Nick Deffley. “This funding has the potential to not only remediate brownfields but to revitalize neighborhoods in line with the Savannah Forward Strategic Plan.”

After the funds are accepted, the City Manager will assign staff to develop a proposal to present to City Council determining which properties will receive funding from the Brownfield Cleanup Grant.