BOSTON — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced significant Brownfields Grant funding to support the cleanup and revitalization of communities within Berkshire County, Massachusetts. Over $2.5 million has been specifically allocated to projects aimed at transforming blighted properties into valuable community assets.

 

The Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) has been selected to receive $2,000,000 in supplemental funding for its Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) program. This substantial funding boost builds upon the $11,095,667 already awarded to the BRPC by the EPA. The BRPC's RLF program has a proven track record, having facilitated loans or subgrants that have led to 12 completed or ongoing cleanup projects. The newly awarded funds are projected to support crucial cleanup efforts at two sites in Adams: the Memorial School and the Curtis Paper property.

 

In addition to the RLF funding, the Town of Great Barrington has been awarded a $500,000 Brownfields Assessment Grant. These community-wide grant funds will enable the town to conduct up to eight Phase 1 and up to six Phase 2 environmental site assessments. The grant will also support the prioritization of potential brownfield sites, community engagement activities, and the preparation of three cleanup plans. The target areas for this assessment grant are Downtown Great Barrington and Housatonic Village. Priority sites identified include an abandoned 0.8-acre eight-unit multifamily residential property and a 20-acre former textile mill that has been vacant since its closure in 1955.

 

By providing resources for assessment and cleanup, the EPA aims to help these communities transform underutilized and potentially hazardous properties into vibrant spaces for residents and businesses.