Brownfields Phase 1 funded for three Link properties; further testing may be needed

NRDC told the board that regional planning board Brownfields funding paid for Phase 1 environmental assessments on three of the Link properties under consideration for the land bank. NRDC said an engineering firm is already completing the Phase 1 work and that its results will determine whether a Phase 2 investigation is required.

Board members asked whether lead or other contamination would become the county's responsibility after title transfer. NRDC responded the environmental work was underway and that once the Phase 1 is complete the status of contamination — and whether additional testing or remediation is necessary — will be known. The presenter emphasized that environmental screening will inform next steps before any demolition or rehabilitation occurs.