EPA's Brownfields Program empowers states, communities, and other stakeholders to work together to prevent, assess, safely clean up, and sustainably reuse brownfields. A brownfield site is real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant. On January 11, 2002, President George W. Bush signed into law the Small Business Liability Relief and Brownfields Revitalization Act. Under the Brownfields Law, EPA provides financial assistance to eligible applicants through four competitive grant programs: assessment grants, revolving loan fund grants, cleanup grants, and job training grants. Additionally, funding support is provided to state and tribal response programs through a separate mechanism.
$200,000
EPA has selected the City of Bridgeport for a job training grant. The city plans to train 45 individuals, place at least 35 in environmental jobs, and track graduates for one year. Bridgeport will provide 110 hours of course work, including certifications in HAZWOPER and lead and asbestos abatement. Students will be recruited primarily from among disadvantaged residents of Bridgeport neighborhoods impacted by brownfields. Trainees will be recruited through the Food Stamps and Employment Program, allowing this grant funding to assist the neediest residents of Bridgeport. Bridgeport's Department of Social Services and Action for Bridgeport Community Development, Inc. (ABCD), will assist with placing graduates in environmental jobs.