April 12, 2006

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm joined Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester today to announce that a $130,000 Brownfield Redevelopment Grant has been finalized and awarded to the city of Benton Harbor to facilitate the return of a contaminated and abandoned facility to productive use. The project is part of Governor Granholm’s Jobs Today Initiative that will put thousands of Michigan residents to work through construction and development projects.

"Returning abandoned and contaminated properties to productive use is critical to Michigan's environmental and economic progress," Governor Granholm said. "We want to provide Michigan's cities with as many tools as possible to make their communities places where people are eager to work, live, and raise families."

The Branscumb Project site is part of a former manufactured gas plant that was also used as an automobile parts and salvage yard. The funding announced today will be used to address the environmental issues associated with the salvage yard operation, and will clear the way for the responsible party to address the environmental issues associated with the manufactured gas plant operation.

“This project will address the environmental contamination that prevents economic development and job growth,” said Director Chester. “The DEQ is committed to working with communities to restore these properties to their full potential and create a real investment in Michigan’s environmental and economic future.”

Following completion of the environmental response activities, the property will be incorporated into the ongoing Brunson Hill development, an $8.2 million residential/multi-family development that will offer quality, affordable housing. Redevelopment on this site will link Brunson Hill, the 2005 Jimmy Carter Work Project area, and the downtown business district.

Editor’s note: DEQ news releases are available on the department’s Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

“Protecting Michigan’s Environment, Ensuring Michigan’s Future”

Revised April 12, 2006 by Pat Watson