EPA Brownfields Grant

In May of 2025, the Appalachian Council of Governments (ACOG) was awarded a $1.2 million Brownfields Assessment Grant by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

The purpose of this grant is to assist with the revitalization of brownfield properties within the ACOG Region to plan for future cleanup activities and redevelopment opportunities for each site. Funding will be used to conduct 24 Phase I and 12 Phase II environmental site assessments. Grant funds will also be used to develop eight cleanup plans, ten reuse plans, and one Community Involvement Plan, as well as to support community engagement activities. Assessment activities will focus on the Cities of Gaffney, Walhalla, and Pickens, and the Town of Pacolet. Priority sites include a 0.2-acre blighted former warehouse and industrial space in the core of downtown Gaffney, and four former mills. Coalition members include Cherokee County, Oconee County, Pickens County, and Spartanburg County.

Files and Documents

What is a Brownfield Site?

The federal government defines brownfields as "abandoned, idled or underused industrial and commercial properties where expansion or redevelopment is complicated by real or perceived environmental contamination." Such properties might include former factories, warehouses, textile mills, or service stations, among others.

Industrial Interior

However, if properly cleaned, brownfield properties can be repurposed for more productive uses such as for housing, parks, or new businesses to support the local economy.

The information provided by the Appalachian Council of Governments regarding the location, condition, and future potential of brownfield sites within the Region is vital for economic revitalization.

Additional Information

For more information, contact:

Thomas Causey, Stantec Consulting Services
Send an Email to Thomas
(980) 699-8831

Jill Franciscco, Appalachian Council of Governments
Send an Email to Jill
(864) 242-9733