Brownfields

What is a brownfield?

A "brownfield site" is defined as "real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant." Brownfield sites include all real property, such as residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

When were we founded?

The West Virginia Brownfields Assistance Centers were created in 2005 by the West Virginia Legislature to empower communities to plan and implement brownfield sites. There are two centers that promote economic development as well as environmental and public health protection through innovative redevelopment of brownfield sites. 

What is our goal?

The Northern WV Brownfields Assistance Center is housed in the West Virginia Water Research Institute at West Virginia University, where they serve over 33 counties. These centers strive to promote and coordinate the development of brownfield property by providing training and technical assistance, facilitating site preparation efforts, engaging community involvement, as well as by helping communities with grant writing and leveraging project funding. 

The Brownfields Assistance Centers and the BAD Buildings Program work in tandem to provide technical assistance and tools to address abandoned or dilapidated buildings in West Virginia. 

                             Photograph of a brownfield, courtesy of wvbrownfields.org