Michael S. Regan 16th Administrator, United States Environmental Protection Agency | Official Website
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced the allocation of $1,333,883 to expedite the assessment and cleanup of brownfield sites in Cherokee Nation. This funding is part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, aimed at addressing legacy pollution, advancing environmental justice, and fostering healthier communities.
Funded by a $1.5 billion investment from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this initiative focuses on transforming polluted and abandoned properties into community assets while creating jobs and promoting economic revitalization in overburdened communities. The funds will be distributed through EPA’s Brownfields Multipurpose, Assessment, and Cleanup (MAC) Grant Programs and Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) Grant Programs.
The Cherokee Nation has been selected for a Brownfields Community-wide Assessment Grant to conduct 25 Phase I and 10 Phase II environmental site assessments. Additionally, the grant will support the preparation of three cleanup plans and one reuse plan along with community engagement activities. Priority sites include areas in Skiatook, Bartlesville, Marble City, and Stilwell.
“Far too many communities across America have suffered the harmful economic and health consequences of living near polluted brownfield sites,” said President Joe Biden. “I've long believed that people who’ve borne the burden of pollution should be the first to see the benefits of new investment. Under my Administration, we are making that a reality by ensuring the historic resources from my Investing in America agenda reach communities that need it most.”
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan added: “President Biden sees contaminated sites and blighted areas as an opportunity to invest in healthier, revitalized communities.” He highlighted that historic funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is enhancing EPA’s Brownfields program to clean up contaminated properties in overburdened communities.
Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance praised Cherokee Nation's efforts: “Historic funding amounts from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda are providing more opportunities for Tribes to invest in their own lands, environment, and well-being.”
Communities experiencing economic stress often lack resources needed for brownfield cleanup projects. Transforming these sites can attract jobs and promote sustainable development while advancing environmental justice.
Since its inception in 1995, EPA’s Brownfields Program has awarded nearly $2.7 billion for assessing and cleaning up contaminated properties. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has significantly increased annual investments from approximately $60 million to around $160 million per year.
To view lists of FY 2024 Multipurpose Assessment Cleanup applicants selected for funding or RLF Supplemental funding recipients visit EPA's official webpages.
For further information on EPA’s Brownfields Program visit their website or connect with Region 6 on social media platforms such as Facebook or X (formerly known as Twitter).
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