By 1812Blockhouse, State of Ohio Press Release
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted have announced state support for 112 brownfield remediation projects that will help clean up contaminated properties in Ohio to make way for future economic development.
As part of the Ohio Brownfield Remediation Program, the Ohio Department of Development is awarding $192 million for projects impacting 41 Ohio counties.
One of those projects is along Park Avenue West in downtown Mansfield.
“These properties are vital spaces in our communities, ones that are not only being wasted in their current capacity, but oftentimes are a danger to their local communities,” said Governor DeWine. “Today, we’re reclaiming these spaces for the future of our residents, businesses, and communities.”
The $192 million in grant awards includes approximately $187.8 million for 79 clean-up projects and $4.5 million for 33 assessment projects. These grants are in addition to the $60 million in Ohio Brownfield Remediation Program grants awarded in April. An additional $98 million in funds will be awarded in the coming months.
“This is revitalization at its finest,” said Lt. Governor Husted. “These investments in cleaning up brownfields take blighted properties and turn them into parks, housing, or economic development sites that improve the quality of life for everyone in the local community.”
Funds awarded today will help to assess and clean up industrial, commercial, and institutional brownfield sites that are abandoned, idled, or underutilized due to a known or potential release of hazardous substances or petroleum. Following site remediation, properties can be redeveloped to revitalize neighborhoods and attract new economic development.
“These funds are significant investments in the future of our communities,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development. “By cleaning up these hazardous sites, we’re creating new opportunities for economic growth that will benefit businesses and residents for years to come.”
In Mansfield, the Richland County Land Reutilization Corporation will receive $75,000 for an assessment of the former Swan Cleaners Building on Park Avenue West. This site was a dry-cleaning business, constructed in 1946. Operations ceased on the site in 2014, and the property has been vacant since. Assessment activities will be performed on the site to fulfill U.S. EPA requirements for ongoing remediation efforts. After cleanup, the site will be redeveloped as part of the “Imagination District,” including two retail shops and office space on the first floor with storage and a dance studio above.
