The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded a $2 million Brownfields Cleanup Grant to the Rome Floyd County Development Authority (RFCDA). The grant, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will support cleanup activities at the Battey Business Complex in Rome, Georgia. The official award was made on October 5, 2024.
An event was held to celebrate this announcement, attended by Acting EPA Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle, Board Chairman Jimmy Byars, Rome City Manager Sammy Rich, and other local and state officials. The site of the former Battey State Hospital served as the venue for this gathering.
“Today’s announcement reflects this administration’s commitment to ensure that benefits of certain Federal climate, clean energy, affordable and sustainable housing, and other investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution,” stated Acting Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle. “We are excited about the potential of this brownfields grant to provide jobs while cleaning up blighted areas of this community and promoting public health and a cleaner environment.”
Communities facing economic challenges often lack resources for brownfield cleanup and redevelopment projects. Transforming these sites into community assets can attract jobs and promote economic revitalization.
The EPA’s Brownfields Program supports President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative. This initiative aims for 40% of certain federal investment benefits to reach disadvantaged communities affected by underinvestment and pollution. The program focuses on advancing environmental justice and equity.
Further details about the EPA's Brownfields Program can be found on their website.
