Communities of all sizes face the challenge of brownfields, including properties that are abandoned, derelict, or underutilized as a result of their prior use. These sites contribute limited economic or community value and often impede redevelopment efforts. Without coordinated planning, community engagement, and stakeholder collaboration for reuse, remediation, or redevelopment, brownfields typically remain underutilized.

Whether it is an abandoned steel mill, former manufacturing plant, closed gas station or even a once-vibrant community asset such as a turn-of-the-century school or hospital, brownfield sites can be found in any community whether urban or rural. They do, however, offer opportunities for improving environmental outcomes, advancing sustainability, and supporting increased community engagement and revitalization.

Defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as, “properties that are or may be contaminated with hazardous substances, pollutants, petroleum, or other contaminants that pose a barrier to redevelopment,” brownfield remediation contributes to blight reduction, creates green space, and provides a range of infill development opportunities (U.S. EPA, 2019).

Neighborhoods and the broader community benefit from remediating and redeveloping or demolishing brownfield sites (Benton, 2025). From a quality-of-life and public-health perspective, remediating abandoned or underused sites creates a safer community and improves the first impression of an area.

The demolition of dilapidated sites can have clear public health benefits (Greenberg et al., 2001). Brownfield redevelopment can improve quality of life and public health by reducing exposure to environmental contaminants, mitigating blight, and supporting safer, more functional land uses. Redeveloped sites may increase access to green space, community amenities, housing, and employment opportunities, which collectively contribute to physical health, mental well-being, and neighborhood stability.

Redevelopment of brownfield and dilapidated sites encourages leaders and residents to collectively consider what is next for the property. Communities often want to take action related to deteriorated structures but are not sure where to start. A critical first step is comprehensive planning. This includes identifying community priorities, evaluating redevelopment options, and coordinating partners and resources to support long-term reuse.