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West Virginia University Technical Assistance to Brownfield Communities

West Virginia

West Virginia Resources

West Virginia has some unique opportunities to aid in brownfield redevelopment.  

WV Brownfields Assistance Centers

The WV Brownfields Assistance Centers are responsive to project-specific questions.  They regularly host webinars, conferences, and other events.  They also founded the BAD Buildings program to help communities address abandoned and dilapidated residential buildings in Appalachia.

Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) 

Downtown Wheeling, WV

WV DEP offers the Brownfields Revolving Fund (BRF) to assist financially with property cleanup.  Their Brownfields Assistance Program provides free guidance throughout the redevelopment process, including helping identify funding sources. 

The DEP also offers a Voluntary Remediation Program (VRP), which provides liability protections related to redeveloping brownfield sites.  For complicated sites that may have deep soil or groundwater contamination, the UECA-LUST Program offers alternative solutions to mitigate risks.  Those looking at either of these programs will need to hire a Licensed Remediation Specialist to supervise the remedial activities.  Other programs and funding related to addressing water quality issues is also available.

WV Economic Development

If your brownfield site is in an Opportunity Zone, you may be eligible for tax incentives!  Designated low-income and distressed communities in rural areas are eligible for funding to support recovery and growth.  New businesses who invest in these Opportunity Zones will be exempt from corporate and personal income tax for 10 years.

Preservation Alliance of WV

B&O and Willard Hotel in Grafton, WV

The Saving Historical Places Grant is a historic preservation grant. This grant provides funds for pre-development costs and is for emergency stabilization of certified historic buildings. This is available to government entities, nonprofits, and individuals.  

The Historic Preservation Microloan Program is used to preserve architectural heritage in WV and revitalize communities. The loan amounts range from $2,500 to $10,000 and there is a 2% interest rate. Nonprofits, individuals, municipalities, religious organizations, and businesses and eligible to apply.

EPA

The EPA keeps an updated list of West Virginia land revitalization cleanup websites.  WVU TAB maintains contact information for the DEP and EPA representatives.