Brownfield redevelopment involves several different participants, starting with a property owner, developer, local brownfield redevelopment authority (BRA), local governmental agencies, councils, the DEQ and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. When planning for redevelopment of contaminated, blighted, and functionally obsolete properties (eligible properties), it is crucial to identify which partners to include in an active planning committee and identify other resources to consult for information.  The list below provides links to several of these resources.  

Participating Entities in the Redevelopment Process
Local Agencies- Brownfield Redevelopment Authorities (BRAs), Planning Commission, Municipal Council, Regional Planning Organization.
State Agencies-  Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ ), Michigan Economic Development Corporation. 
Federal Agencies- Environmental Protection Agency, Housing and Urban Development, Rural Development, Department of Commerce. 
Others- Real Estate Brokers, Michigan Economic Developers Association, Michigan Association of Planning.

Developing a plan is the first step in the redevelopment process.  Communities must then develop a list of eligible properties and identify which incentives apply.  The eligible properties include facilities as defined by  Part 201  of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act 451, of 1994 as amended, properties located in a Qualified Local Governmental Unit, or properties owned by a Land Bank. 

The next step in the redevelopment process is to determine the need for assessment or cleanup.  At this point it is best to contact the  district office  and speak to one of the Remediation and Redevelopment Division project managers. They will be able to provide you with the relevant cleanup standards and information about  liability protection .  A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) and potentially a Phase II ESA will be the initial steps in determining if a site is a facility and to meet all appropriate inquiry standards.  A  Baseline Environmental Assessment  might also be necessary for a new owner. 

Seeking potential sources of funding is critical. Generally, local and county/regional incentives, such as tax increment financing are available to developers of brownfield sites, whereas state and federal incentives, such as grants or loans are available to local units of government (LUGs).  If you need guidance on who to talk to first, please contact the Brownfield Redevelopment Unit.