For Immediate Release
April 11, 2005
Please Contact: Colin Durrant (617)722-1650 or Dalié Jiménez, 617-722-1650

Brownfields Cleanup Essential for Local Neighborhoods, Economies
Barrios Says Brownfields Fund Brings Jobs,
Revenue to Communities

(Boston, MA) Emphasizing the importance of brownfields cleanup and redevelopment for local economies, particularly in urban areas, Senator Jarrett Barrios said today that the state fund used to cleanup toxic brownfields must be funded into the future. Barrios is a co-sponsor of a bill filed by Senator Edward Augustus (D-Worcester) that would recapitalize the state’s Brownfields Redevelopment Fund in order to provide assistance for site cleanup and job creation across the state.

“This is a simple solution that makes our communities cleaner, safer, more financially secure,” said Senator Barrios. “We have an obligation in Massachusetts to make sure our residents have good jobs available, and we also have an obligation to see that our communities are places where people want to live and do business. This bill would accomplish both of these goals.”

The legislation calls for a recapitalization of the state’s Brownfields Redevelopment fund, which is set to expire at the end of June. The fund, which was originally started with $30 million in 1998, has helped finance over 317 projects in 92 communities across the state.

In addition to providing another $30 million for the economic and environmental redevelopment of toxic brownfields sites across the state, the legislation being considered would expand the eligibility for grants under the redevelopment program. The proposal would increase the maximum grant amount from $50,000 to $100,000 and would allow asbestos and lead paint abatement to be eligible for funding. It would also allow private developers to receive grants for brownfields work.

“This legislation is about giving neighborhoods resources to create opportunity and hope at home,” said Senator Barrios. “They are always welcome here in Massachusetts.”

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