Brownfields are developed commercial properties where prior activity may
have caused low-level pollution, such as leaks from underground fuel storage
tanks at gas stations. These sites are difficult to redevelop because there may
be legal and financial burdens associated with their cleanup.
However,
they also represent golden opportunities for the people of New York State. By
redeveloping brownfields, we can invest in already developed land throughout the
state (i.e., downtown areas) instead of building on pristine open space (i.e.
farmland and other undeveloped properties).
In 2003, the state enacted a
groundbreaking brownfields law. However, in the years since its implementation,
some of its programs are encumbered by structural flaws that either restrain
redevelopment or fund projects that do not represent the best use of limited tax
dollars.
Joshua F. Klainberg
Deputy Director
New York League of Conservation
Voters
30 Broad Street - 30th Floor
New York, NY 10004
212.361.6350 x
207