The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced the allocation of Brownfields Job Training Program grants to Groundwork Elizabeth and Montclair State University in New Jersey. Each organization will receive funding to recruit, train, and place workers in community revitalization and cleanup projects at brownfield sites across the state. This initiative is part of President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law aimed at promoting economic opportunity and environmental justice.
"Investing in brownfields job training grants in New Jersey not only revitalizes our communities but also empowers individuals with the skills they need for a sustainable future,” said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “Together, we are transforming neglected spaces into opportunities for growth and economic resilience."
U.S. Senator Andy Kim emphasized the dual benefits of these grants: "These grants are a great example of how we can create economic opportunities and address the very real environmental concerns that hazardous materials pose to our communities."
Groundwork Elizabeth will utilize nearly $500,000 to train 75 students, placing 40 in environmental jobs through partnerships with organizations like the American Red Cross and Kean University. The program targets unemployed or underemployed youth aged 16-24 from public housing or Youth Corp programs.
Montclair State University received $500,000 to support job training for 100 students, aiming to place 68 in environmental roles. Their focus includes veterans, women, minorities, and economically underserved residents. Collaborations include entities such as the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and Veolia North America.
“Job training programs are essential to our mission of protecting the environment and building a green economy,” stated U.S. Representative Rob Menendez (NJ-08). He praised Groundwork Elizabeth's efforts in supporting local communities.
U.S. Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) highlighted Montclair State University's role: “Brownfields remediation is critical to expanding opportunities for housing, small businesses, open space, and other community resources in the Garden State.”
New Jersey Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette noted that this funding supports ongoing efforts by providing job training for historically underserved communities.
John Evangelista from Groundwork Elizabeth expressed pride in receiving the grant: “This grant represents a significant step forward in empowering our youth...to transform underutilized spaces into thriving assets.”
Dr. Pankaj Lal from Montclair State University commented on their award: "We are extremely pleased to receive this award which initiates the Job Training Program at the university."
The EPA's Brownfields Job Training Program aims to develop skilled workforces where assessment and cleanup activities occur at brownfield sites—areas often located within disadvantaged communities affected by pollution issues.
Since its inception in 1998, more than 23,400 individuals have completed training through these programs with over 17,400 placed into related careers.
For further details on these initiatives or other types of Brownfields Grants offered by EPA visit their official website.
