Forests
Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Minister Steve Thomson announced today that $1.8 million will be available in the fourth round of the Brownfield Renewal Funding Program to revitalize brownfield sites throughout the province. This brings the total funding provided by the Province to $4.2 million.
Brownfields are abandoned, vacant or derelict sites that are contaminated, but have the potential for redevelopment. The Province's contributions allow these sites to reach their full potential, increasing commercial space, creating employment, improving community safety, retaining greenspace and reducing pressures on undeveloped land.
Since its inception in 2009, the Province's Brownfield Renewal Funding Program has funded initial environmental work on 29 projects, making B.C. a national leader in brownfield management.
The redevelopment of brownfield sites contribute economically, environmentally and socially to their communities, providing economic development opportunities, cleaning up environmental contamination, contributing to retaining green space and creating a greater sense of public safety.
Applicants can apply by downloading the online Brownfield Renewal Funding Application and submitting in hard copy form by April 29, 2011. Complete information can be found at: www.brownfieldrenewal.gov.bc.ca
Quotes:
Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, Steve Thomson -
"Brownfield renewal projects are leading examples in our communities for urban redevelopment, job creation, environmental cleanup and neighbourhood revitalization. I am excited to see what applications we receive and look forward to future successful brownfield projects within B.C."
Port Alberni economic development manager, Pat Deakin -
"We recognize the importance of brownfield redevelopment and the benefits that it can bring to our community. The Brownfield Renewal Funding Program made it possible for council to commit to the former Port Alberni Plywood Mill project, which will create development and economic opportunities on this waterfront land in the heart of our community."
SLR consulting senior manager, Jackie Smith -
"Regulatory requirements for cleanup of brownfields have changed over time and the B.C. Brownfield Renewal Strategy has simplified the process for working with government. The funding aspect of the program has allowed for more brownfields to be developed, stimulating local economies and allowing former contaminated properties to be sold for fair market value."
Quick Facts:
* The B.C. Brownfield Renewal Strategy was designed to encourage more brownfield redevelopment across British Columbia.
* Redeveloped brownfields increase local tax revenue from underutilized properties, reduce greenhouse gases from urban sprawl and generate sustainable land stewardship.
* The B.C. Brownfield Renewal Strategy was announced in March 2007 and included a $10-million Brownfield Renewal Funding Program.
* The B.C. Brownfield Renewal Strategy has been recognized with two Brownie Awards from the Canadian Urban Institute for leadership in brownfield renewal.
* The Province of British Columbia is a proud sponsor of the Canadian Urban Institute's Annual Brownfield Conference.
Learn More:
Where to apply:
http://www.brownfieldrenewal.gov.bc.ca/financial.html
Learn more about Brownfield Renewal:
http://www.brownfieldrenewal.gov.bc.ca
Learn more about a Brownfield project that is currently underway:
Learn more about the Canadian Urban Institute Brownie Awards:
http://canadianbrownfields.ca/brownies/2009-winners
Images of Brownfield projects underway and a list of current Brownfield projects:
http://www.mediaroom.gov.bc.ca/DisplayEventDetails.aspx?eventId=520
Contact:
David Currie
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261
Connect with the Province of B.C. at: www.gov.bc.ca/connect
