What is a brownfield and how does a site, or property, become designated as a brownfield in the Florida Brownfields Program?
• A “Brownfield site” is defined as a site that is generally abandoned, idled, or under-used industrial or commercial properties where expansion or redevelopment is complicated by actual or perceived environmental contamination. • A “Brownfield area” is defined as a contiguous area of one or more brownfield sites, some of which may not be contaminated, and which a local government has designated by resolution. Such areas may include all or portions of community redevelopment areas, enterprise zones, empowerment zones, other such designated economically deprived communities and areas, and Environmental Protection Agency-designated brownfield pilot projects. What is the DEP s role in the Florida Brownfields Program? Generally, the DEP s role in the Florida Brownfields Program will involve providing oversight and regulatory assistance for contaminated site cleanups, including development of site rehabilitation criteria that incorporate risk-based corrective action principles. After a brow
