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RDA: EPA brownfields funds keep existing projects moving; Malden Avenue and Sacred Heart investigations planned
Summary
Staff updated the board that the EPA Brownfields program is paused for new awards but that existing phase‑I/II work and reimbursements continue. The RDA will fund deeper site investigations at Malden Avenue and assist the developer at the Sacred Heart site with investigation costs.
City staff told the Redevelopment Authority that the federal EPA Brownfields program is temporarily closed to new project applications but that the payment portal remains active for reimbursements on projects that were preapproved before the federal pause.
What staff said: the RDA can continue existing Phase I assessments and reimburse eligible expenses automatically through the EPA payment portal. Staff listed current Phase I or planning work for public spaces and private properties, including conceptual planning assistance for the YMCA, a Phase I investigation for the Owen Park Bandshell and deeper site investigation plans for Malden Avenue, a former undeclared landfill tied to a proposed $25–30 million project.
Staff also said the RDA would help pay for more detailed investigation at the privately acquired Sacred Heart Hospital site, including targeted borings and asbestos/lead paint mitigation verification, because the developer’s demolition cost estimates vary widely depending on hidden asbestos and other hazardous material discoveries.
Why it matters: Malden Avenue is a large, costly redevelopment candidate with landfill legacy issues; better site data is needed before major public or private investment. The Sacred Heart property’s condition and remediation costs will influence any redevelopment strategy for that large parcel.
Next steps: staff will continue existing brownfield work, use EPA funds for eligible reimbursements on previously approved projects, and support site investigations at Malden Avenue and Sacred Heart to clarify remediation scope and cost estimates.
Ending: The board received the update; staff said they do not anticipate pursuing new Brownfields awards until federal programs re‑open.
