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ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE CASE STUDIES OF BROWNFIELDS REDEVELOPMENT SITES
Release Date: 06/11/99
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FOR RELEASE: FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 1999
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE CASE STUDIES
OF BROWNFIELDS REDEVELOPMENT SITES
EPA conducted a series of case studies to determine whether the redevelopment of brownfields have been impeded by Title VI environmental justice complaints and to address concerns that these complaints may deter businesses from redeveloping brownfield sites. The study, "The Brownfields Title VI Case Studies," showed that community residents were not likely to file Title VI complaints because they were actively involved in the redevelopment process and could identify and address their concerns; and residents were more interested in the economic benefit. Also, most brownfield sites did not require environmental permits, therefore limiting the chance of a Title VI complaint being filed. Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, a person can file a complaint alleging discriminatory environmental and health effects from actions taken by recipients of EPA financial assistance, including environmental (pollution control) permits. The cases studies were conducted in Miami, Fla.; Chicago, Ill.; Lawrence, Mass.; Detroit, Mich.; Camden, N.J.; and Charlotte, N.C. The selected cities had to meet the following criteria: was an EPA Brownfields Assessment pilot; had a minority population greater than 10 percent; listed a proposed redevelopment activity that seemed likely to require an environmental permit; had a high number of existing facilities with environmental permits; identified at least two sites for redevelopment in its application; and, had provided quarterly reports on its Assessment Pilot to EPA. Additionally, two Pilots were selected for each population range of (a) greater than 500,000, (b) between 100,000 and 500,000 and (c) less than 100,000. Copies of the case studies can be accessed at https://www.epa.gov/brownfields or by calling the hotline at 1-800-424-9346.
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