Turning Brownfields into Mixed-Use Developments
Published May 2005
Introduction
Vacant commercial and industrial properties that need environmental cleanup are considered a blight by the communities in which they are located. They often lie untouched for years as developers avoid the liabilities inherent in such properties. With a small amount of government encouragement, however, these properties, also known as brownfields, can be brought back into the tax base to become an engine for prosperity and community revitalization. Brownfields, often located within or near city limits, offer development opportunities that are, in many cases, preferable to building new communities on undeveloped land outside the city.
State policies have supported developers and city officials in many states in their efforts to turn brownfields into highly desirable mixed-use communities where people can live, work, shop and play. This type of development offers a number of advantages over customary suburban development by:
- Reducing pollution and congestion by providing easy access to transit and making walking or bicycling a viable transportation option;
- Reducing travel times and congestion if located in or near city centers;
- Reclaiming unused land to revitalize cities and communities by creating commercial, residential and employment opportunities; and
- Attracting business and commercial interests that otherwise might locate elsewhere.
posted 7/26/05
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