The Brownfield Assessment Grant provides funding to proactively conduct environmental assessments and remedial planning activities for brownfield sites. A "brownfield" is defined as an abandoned, idled, or under-used industrial, commercial, or institutional property where expansion or redevelopment is complicated by known or potential releases of hazardous substances. The program provides funding up to 100% of the eligible expenses, up to a maximum of $50,000 per project.
The Brownfield Assessment Grant is funded by a $500,000 grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that expires in September 2025. Therefore, grant funds are subject to federal requirements. Applications will be processed in the order they are received, reviewed to meet EPA criteria, and awarded as funding is available.
Eligibility
Eligible Applicants
- Applicant is in good standing with applicable governmental entities (i.e. current on federal, state and local income tax, property tax, utilities, code violations, fees).
- For-Profit and Non-profit entities can apply for assessment funding.
- Applicants currently under regulatory program compliance or enforcement actions are not eligible for funding.
Eligible Expenses
- Phase I Environmental Site Assessment
- Phase II Environmental Site Assessment
- Asbestos and Universal Waste Surveys
- Lead Based Paint Surveys (non-residential)
- Cleanup Planning
Ineligible Expenses
- Cleanup Activities
Application Process and Timeline
Application Submission
Submit an application and supporting documentation to the Department of Economic Development using ZoomGrants. Failure to submit a complete application and required documentation will delay the review and approval process.
Application Review
The Department of Economic Development will review the application and supporting documentation to determine eligibility. Eligible applications will be reviewed by the Division of Environmental Services to ensure appropriate approvals have been obtained prior to the application being approved.
Application Approval
The application will be submitted to US EPA and/or Ohio Bureau of Underground Storage Tank Regulations for final site approval.
Brownfield Assessment Grant Award
If the application is approved, the applicant will be notified promptly. The City of Toledo will identify vendors to perform eligible assessments and remedial activities requested in the Brownfield Assessment Grant Application. Selected vendors will be paid directly by the City of Toledo upon completion of work.
Questions?
Please email your questions to Marc Gerdeman at marc.gerdeman@toledo.oh.gov.