Economic Revitalization through Brownfields

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle talks about her strong commitment to the environment and economic development.

On September 24, President Preckwinkle kicked off the opening session of Economic Revitalization through Brownfields, organized by the Cook County Department of Environmental Control and KSU TAB (Kansas State University – Technical Assistance to Brownfields Program) and hosted by Triton College. The purpose of the workshop was to help communities gain a greater understanding of Brownfield revitalization, what it is, and how to make it part of an economic development strategy. Topics covered included characteristics of a successful brownfield cleanup and redevelopment, grant and technical assistance resources available from federal, state and county entities, and success stories from suburban Cook County, the importance of community-based planning and job opportunities presented by brownfields redevelopment.

Other speakers included representatives from the KSU TAB (Kansas State University – Technical Assistance to Brownfields Program), Deborah Stone, Cook County Chief Sustainability Officer and Federal and State representatives. Senior staff from Cook County’s Bureau of Administration and Bureau of Economic Development were on hand to present resources available to local communities from their offices. Attendees were encouraged to take the information back to their respective communities in order to determine ways in which a greater understanding of Brownfield revitalization will aid their economic growth strategy.