 |  |
|
DES Seeks Input on Brownfields Identification and Selection Process
Concord, NH – The New Hampshire Oil Remediation Program at the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES) is currently seeking public comments on the criteria for selection of brownfield sites and suggestions for ways to improve the identification and resolution of petroleum brownfields sites in New Hampshire. A brownfield is defined as abandoned, idled, or under-used industrial and commercial facilities where expansion or redevelopment is complicated by real or perceived environmental contamination. The work is being done as part of a $200,000 Petroleum Brownfields Assessment grant DES was awarded from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Copies of the grant work plan are available on the DES’ Brownfields website at www.des.nh.gov/BrownfieldsNH/. The goal of the funding assistance is to address environmental contamination issues so that the brownfields property is ready for reuse and redevelopment. For the property to be eligible for grant funding, there can be no financially viable responsible party. DES is currently soliciting nominations for sites to include in this new program. DES has a variety of well established brownfields program including a Covenant Not to Sue program, Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund program and a targeted assessment program. These programs have achieved a number of notable successes including the redevelopment of Whitney Screw in Nashua, Meadow Roads Realty mill site in Newport and creation of the Belmont Park and Ride at the former Belmont Gulf property. For further information about obtaining assistance from the Petroleum Brownfields Assessment Grant or to provide comments please contact Gary Lynn, Petroleum Remediation Section Manager at 271-8873, Gary.Lynn@des.nh.gov or send a letter to his attention at Department of Environmental Services, 29 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03302-0095. The public comment period extends from July 15, 2008 through August 30, 2008. The written comments will be attached to the work plan and responses to the comments will be prepared and submitted to the EPA. |
