The Orange County Industrial Development Agency (IDA) has taken a significant step toward revitalizing contaminated properties within the county, leveraging a $500,000 grant awarded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This funding aligns with the EPA’s mission to address brownfields—sites burdened by hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants that hinder redevelopment.
A Federal Push for Brownfield Solutions
The EPA’s brownfield grant program distributed $233 million in funding to 180 communities across the United States this year, with 13 recipients from New York State, including the Orange County IDA. These grants enable communities to identify and plan cleanup efforts for brownfields, paving the way for safe and sustainable redevelopment.
While this grant covers only research and planning, it is a foundational step toward securing additional EPA funding for actual cleanup and redevelopment activities. “This is a significant boost to our efforts,” said Orange County IDA Executive Director Bill Fioravanti, emphasizing the transformative potential of these sites.
Targeting Key Sites for Revitalization
The grant enables the IDA to evaluate several key sites in Orange County, prioritizing areas with strategic development potential. Among the top priorities is Port Jervis, a city that has often been overlooked but recently gained momentum with a $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant from New York State. “Port Jervis has tremendous potential,” said Fioravanti, highlighting the city’s promise as a redevelopment hub.
Another focus is the former Nepera Chemical Company site in the town of Woodbury. Spanning over 100 acres, this site’s proximity to major thoroughfares, such as Routes 86 and 87, and the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, makes it an attractive candidate for redevelopment. However, its history of industrial use has left significant contamination issues that require careful planning and remediation.
Camp LaGuardia, an abandoned county-owned property that once served as a major New York City homeless shelter, is also under consideration. With asbestos hazards to address, the site offers potential for transformation into a public park or other community assets.
Strategic Vision for Economic Growth
The EPA grant is a welcome addition to the IDA’s broader “shovel-ready initiative,” launched last year to identify and prepare developable properties. Inspired by the successful development of Warwick Technology Park, this program aims to uncover opportunities ranging from greenfields to urban infill locations.
“Contaminated properties, or brownfields, are like hidden gems,” Fioravanti explained. “They often have prime locations with access to essential infrastructure like municipal water and sewer, but developers are hesitant due to contamination concerns.” By addressing these concerns, the IDA hopes to unlock the true potential of these sites, fostering economic growth and community development.
The Road Ahead: Partnering with Experts
To execute the brownfield assessment project, the IDA will enlist the expertise of a specialized consultant. Over the next two years, the agency will work to catalog and prioritize brownfield sites, conduct environmental assessments, and devise cleanup strategies.
This groundwork not only facilitates immediate redevelopment opportunities but also positions Orange County to secure further federal and state funding for comprehensive remediation efforts.
Why Brownfield Redevelopment Matters
Brownfield redevelopment offers a dual benefit: it revitalizes underutilized properties and mitigates environmental risks. Successfully redeveloping these sites can attract businesses, create jobs, and enhance community spaces, contributing to the county’s long-term economic resilience.
Additionally, transforming brownfields aligns with broader sustainability goals, reducing urban sprawl and preserving greenfields by making better use of already developed land.
Building a Brighter Future for Orange County
As the IDA works to unlock the potential of these sites, the impact of their efforts will extend beyond individual projects. Each successful redevelopment serves as a case study in balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship, setting a precedent for future initiatives.
“This grant is just the beginning,” Fioravanti said. “With a clear plan and strong community partnerships, we can turn these hidden liabilities into thriving assets for Orange County.”
Learn More
For more information about the Orange County IDA’s initiatives and the EPA’s brownfield program, visit Orange County IDA’s website or the EPA Brownfields Program page.
