NYS Interagency Work Group on Brownfields
Brownfield Interagency Directory - July 2005
A copy of the Brownfield Interagency Directory is available in Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF, 202KB, 29 pg.)
Table of Contents
- Banking Department
- Department of Agriculture & Markets
- Department of Environmental Conservation
- Department of Health
- Department of State
- Department of Taxation and Finance
- Department of Transportation
- Division of Housing and Community Renewal
- Empire State Development
- Energy Research and Development Authority
- Environmental Facilities Corporation
- Governor's Office of Regulatory Reform
- Governor's Office for Small Cities
- Insurance Department
- Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation
- SUNY Center for Brownfield Studies
Introduction
The Interagency Work Group on Brownfields was created in March of 2004 to serve as a forum for New York State to exchange information on brownfield related activities and to develop a coordinated State agenda for addressing brownfields. The Interagency Work Group consists of 16 State entities and provides an opportunity to work together in a more integrated fashion toward sustainable brownfield redevelopment. Combining the diverse backgrounds, expertise and experience of each entity ensures the continued success of New York State's brownfield redevelopment efforts.
The October 7, 2003 enactment of the landmark Superfund/Brownfield law set the stage to accelerate the pace of brownfield cleanup and redevelopment across New York State. Transforming brownfields into productive community assets involves many factors: planning, financing, community involvement, liability issues, remedy selection, regulatory requirements and the coordination of stakeholders. Agency partnerships are crucial to ensure that our communities have access to tools that will help them to become healthier and more inviting places in which to live and work. New York State entities have a wide range of brownfields stakeholders, with diverse backgrounds and expertise. As such, the mission of the Interagency Work Group on Brownfields will be to exchange information on brownfield related activities and to develop a coordinated agenda for redevelopment of brownfield sites in New York State.
To facilitate a better understanding of each entity's role in brownfields, the Interagency Work Group on Brownfields developed this directory. Each fact sheet provides an overview of that particular entity's mission, programs, roles in brownfield cleanup and redevelopment and appropriate contacts for additional information.
Additional State and Federal agencies not part of the Interagency Work Group on Brownfields manage programs and offer technical help or financial assistance related to brownfield redevelopment. For more information, readers should consult the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation publication entitled: "Brownfields Financial Resources Manual". It is available online at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/website/der/bfield/brownmanual.html
New York State Banking Department
Mission Statement
It is the policy of the State of New York that the business of all banking organizations shall be supervised and regulated through the Banking Department in such manner as to insure the safe and sound conduct of such business, to conserve their assets, to prevent hoarding of money, to eliminate unsound and destructive competition among such banking organizations and thus to maintain public confidence in such business and protect the public interest and the interests of depositors, creditors, shareholders and stockholders.
Programs Applicable to Brownfields
Community Reinvestment Program -- Under this program, financing of eligible local projects enhances economic development for the community and larger banks are reviewed for level of investment in the local economy. Brownfield projects can be eligible for this local financing.
Linked Deposit Program -- This program is implemented to encourage and assist eligible businesses within the State to make investments and undertake projects that will contribute to improving their performance and competitiveness by reducing interest rates for capital.
Role in Brownfields
The Banking Department can advise local banks on regulatory programs. The Community Reinvestment Program and Linked Deposit Program may provide public and private sector financing for redevelopment projects.
Contact
Barbara KentDirector of Consumer Affairs and Financial Products
New York State Banking Department
One State Street
New York, NY 10004-1417
Telephone: (212) 709-3503
E-mail: Barbara.kent@dfs.ny.gov
Website: www.dfs.ny.gov
New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets
Mission Statement
The mission of the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets is to foster a competitive food and agriculture industry to benefit producers and consumers.
Programs Applicable to Brownfields
Agricultural Districts Law -- The Department administers the law to preserve, protect and encourage the development and improvement of agricultural land for the production of food and other agricultural products. There are 325 State certified agricultural districts in 53 counties, which capture more than 8.4 million acres. While most brownfield sites will be located in urban areas, some may be located within a county adopted, State certified, agricultural district.
Agriculture and Markets Law -- The law requires State agencies, public benefit corporations and local governments that intend to acquire land or any interest therein (above certain acreage thresholds), or which intend to construct or advance public funds for the construction of dwellings, commercial or industrial facilities, or water or sewer facilities to serve non-farm structures within a state certified agricultural district, to file a Preliminary and Final Notice of Intent with the Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets and with the County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board.
Role in Brownfields
The Department views brownfields as a critical land use issue that impacts agriculture. The more that industrial sites in urban areas can be reclaimed, remediated and reused, the less pressure there is to develop "green space," notably agricultural land. The Department sees brownfields as a vital part of appropriate land use planning.
Contact
Danielle C. CordierSenior Attorney
New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets
10B Airline Dr.
Albany, NY 12205
Telephone: (518) 457-2449
E-mail: danielle.cordier@agmkt.state.ny.us
Website: www.agriculture.ny.gov
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Mission Statement
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) exists to conserve, improve, and protect New York's natural resources and environment, and control water, land and air pollution, in order to enhance the health, safety and welfare of the people of the State and their overall economic and social well being.
Programs Applicable to Brownfields
Brownfield Cleanup Program (BCP) -- The BCP enhances private sector remediation of brownfields which reduces development pressure on greenfields. Remedial activities are carried out with DEC's oversight at eligible brownfield sites. DEC issues a Certificate of Completion after remediation requirements for the site have been achieved. The Certificate of Completion provides liability protections and triggers the availability of tax credits for eligible parties.
Environmental Restoration Program (ERP) -- As part of the 1996 Clean Water/Clean Air Bond Act, $200 million is available through the ERP to provide municipalities with financial assistance for remedial activities at eligible brownfield sites. Municipalities are reimbursed up to 90 percent of eligible on-site costs and 100 percent of eligible off-site costs. New York State releases the municipality and all successors in title, lessees, and lenders from remedial liability for contaminants addressed on the site, with re-openers.
Brownfield Opportunity Area Program (BOA) -- DEC has partnered with the Department of State (DOS) to administer the BOA. The BOA provides technical and financial assistance to municipalities and community based organizations to conduct area-wide brownfield redevelopment planning for areas affected with a multitude of brownfield sites. Funding is available to cover up to 90 percent of the costs to complete BOA pre-nomination studies, nominations, implementation strategies, and site assessments.
Inactive Hazardous Waste Disposal Site Program ("State Superfund Program") -- This program's purpose is to identify and characterize suspected inactive hazardous waste disposal sites and to investigate and remediate inactive hazardous waste disposal sites that have consequential amounts of hazardous waste which pose a significant threat to public health or the environment.
Response and Containment Program and Petroleum Remediation Program -- The purpose of the Response and Containment Program is to protect public health, safety and the environment by ensuring a timely and appropriate response to releases of contaminants. The Petroleum Remediation Program investigates and remediates petroleum releases.
Role in Brownfields
In addition to the programs above, DEC has more than 20 years of experience in remediating contaminated properties and continues to work closely with its fellow State agencies, Federal partners and other partners to create a comprehensive approach to brownfields revitalization.
Contact
Donna WeigelDirector, Bureau of Program Management
Division of Environmental Remediation
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
625 Broadway
Albany, NY 12233-7012
Telephone: (518) 402-9764
Fax: (518) 402-9722
E-mail: dmweigel@gw.dec.state.ny.us
Website: www.dec.ny.gov
<See below for Regional Contacts
Department of Environmental Conservation
Regional Contact List
| County | Contact | Telephone | Mailing Address | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nassau, Suffolk | Walter Parish | (631)444-0240 | wjparish@gw.dec.state.ny.us | SUNY Campus Building StonyBrook,NY11790 |
| Bronx, Kings, Manhattan, Queens, Richmond, Ulster | Daniel Walsh | (718) 482-4559 | dcwalsh@gw.dec.state.ny.us | 1 Hunter's Point Plaza 47-40 21st Street Long Island City, NY 11101 |
| Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Westchester | Ram Pergadia | (845) 256-3146 | rrpergad@gw.dec.state.ny.us | 21 South Putt Corners Rd. New Paltz, NY 12561 |
| Albany, Columbia, Delaware, Greene, Montgomery, Otsego, Rennselaer, Schenectady, Schoharie | Allan Geisendorfer | (518) 357-2045 | angeisen@gw.dec.state.ny.us | 1150 North Westcott Rd. Schenectady, NY 12306 |
| Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Saratoga, Warren, Washington | Russ Huyck | (518) 897-1242 | rdhuyck@gw.dec.state.ny.us | Route 86, PO Box 296 Ray Brook, NY 12977 |
| Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Oneida, St. Lawrence | Darrell Sweredoski | (315) 785-2513 | dmswered@gw.dec.state.ny.us | 317 Washington Street Watertown, NY 13601 |
| Broome, Cayuga, Chenango, Cortland, Madison, Oswego, Onondaga, Tioga, Tompkins | James Burke | (315) 426-7550 | jeburke@gw.dec.state.ny.us | 615 Erie Blvd. West Syracuse, NY 13204 |
| Chemung, Genessee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Schuyler, Steuben, Wayne, Yates | Bart Putzig | (585) 226-5349 | bxputzig@gw.dec.state.ny.us | 6274 East Avon-Lima Road Avon,NY14414 |
| Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Niagara, Wyoming | Martin Doster and Greg Sutton |
(716) 851-7220 (716) 851-7220 |
mldoster@gw.dec.state.ny.us gpsutton@gw.dec.state.ny.us |
270 Michigan Avenue Buffalo, NY 14203 |
New York State Department of Health
Mission Statement
The Department of Health (DOH) shares responsibility for protection of human health and the environment with the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
Programs Applicable to Brownfields
DOH participates in the following remedial programs:
Brownfield Cleanup Program
Environmental Restoration Program
Inactive Hazardous Waste Disposal Site Program ("State Superfund Program")
(See program descriptions under the Department of Environmental Conservation.) Within these programs, DOH investigates the potential for human exposure from environmental contamination at sites. Activities include water, soil and air sampling and analysis; review of work plans, investigation reports and remediation decision documents. A DOH specialist is assigned to each site to coordinate and communicate health-related activities.
Drinking Water State Revolving Fund -- This program prov ides a financial incentive for public and private water systems to undertake drinking water infrastructure improvements. For communities with demonstrated financial hardship, interest rates can be reduced to zero.
Role in Brownfields
DOH is responsible for determining that work completed under the State's remedial programs is protective of public health for the intended use of the property. DOH reviews and comments on investigation and remediation documentation prepared for a site. DEC coordinates with DOH on review of submittals to the agencies. A human health exposure assessment for soil, groundwater, surface water, ambient air and indoor air exposure pathways are included in investigation work plans.
Contact
Lani RaffertyNew York State Department of Health
Flanigan Square
547 River Street
Troy, New York 12180-2216
Telephone: (518) 402-7850
Fax: (518) 402-7859
E-mail: ldr0l@health.state.ny.us
Website: www.health.ny.gov
New York State Department of State
Mission Statement
One of the missions of the New York State Department of State (DOS) is to serve local governments and other community interests State-wide by providing assistance from various programs affecting their communities ranging from community and waterfront revitalization, to training on land use and zoning issues, to implementing the State building code. This is achieved primarily through the following Divisions: Coastal Resources, Local Government Services, and Code Enforcement and Administration.
Programs Applicable to Brownfields
Brownfield Opportunity Areas (BOA) Program -- The Division of Coastal Resources has partnered with the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to administer the BOA. The BOA provides technical and financial assistance to municipalities and community based organizations to conduct area-wide brownfield redevelopment planning for areas affected with a multitude of brownfield sites. Funding is available to cover up to 90 percent of the costs to complete BOA pre-nomination studies, nominations, implementation strategies, and site assessments.
Local Waterfront Revitalization Program -- Through this program, the Division of Coastal Resources provides funding and technical assistance to waterfront communities to prepare and implement redevelopment strategies for downtown revitalization, the redevelopment of abandoned buildings and for urban areas containing brownfield sites.
Quality Communities Community Center Revitalization Committee -- As part of the Governor's Quality Communities Program, the Division of Coastal Resources provides staff to this inter-agency committee chaired by the Secretary of State, and established to recommend steps to better revitalize New York State's downtowns, many of which contain brownfields.
The Division of Local Government Services -- Provides training and technical assistance to local governments and community organizations on land use, zoning, other land use regulatory techniques, the State Environmental Quality Review Act, and community planning and development.
The Division of Code Enforcement and Administration -- Provides assistance to code enforcement officials, design professionals, and the general public on the Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code. The Division is also responsible for the approval of factory built homes and buildings, the evaluation of building products, and oversight of State permitting agencies.
Role in Brownfields
The Superfund/Brownfield law directs the Commissioner of DEC to provide financial and technical assistance to communities to plan for the reuse and redevelopment of brownfields on an area-wide basis and to conduct site assessments on priority sites that are catalysts for revitalization. DEC has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with DOS, in which the agencies will partner to implement this program. The BOA blends and delivers to communities DOS's expertise and long history of working in partnership with various interests across New York State on community based planning projects combined with DEC's expertise in assessing and cleaning-up brownfield sites. The program's primary objective is to establish a community based vision and implementation strategy to revitalize areas impacted by a concentration of brownfield sites. Once an area-wide plan (Nomination and Implementation Strategy) is completed, DOS and DEC will review and determine the plan's consistency with the Municipal Redevelopment Law, Section 970-r. If the plan (Nomination and Implementation Strategy) is determined to be consistent with the provisions of the Municipal Redevelopment Law (Section 970-r.), the Brownfield Opportunity Area shall be designated.
Contact
Peter WalshBrownfields Coordinator
New York State Department of State
Division of Coastal Resources
41 State Street
Albany, NY 12231-0001
Telephone: (518) 474-1845
E-mail: pwalsh@dos.state
Website: www.dos.state.ny.us
<See below for Regional Contacts
Department of State
Regional Contact List
| County | Contact | Telephone | Mailing Address | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bronx, Dutchess, Kings, Manhattan, Nassau, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk, Sullivan, Ulster, Westchester | Curtis Cravens | (212) 417-5005 | ccravens@dos.state.ny.us | Division of Coastal Resources 123WilliamStreet New York, NY 10038 |
| Albany, Clinton, Columbia, Delaware, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Montgomery, Oneida, Otsego, Rennselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, St. Lawrence, Warren, Washington | David MacLeod | (518) 474-4949 | dmacleod@dos.state.ny.us | Division of Coastal Resources 41 State Street Albany, NY 12231 |
| Allegany, Broome, Cattaraugus, Cayuga, Chautauqua, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Erie, Genessee, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Niagara, Onondaga, Ontario, Orleans, Oswego, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Tioga, Tompkins, Wayne, Wyoming, Yates | Elaine Miller | (607) 721-8756 | gmiller4@stny.rr.com | Division of Coastal Resources 1605 State Office Bldg. 44 Hawley Street Binghamton, NY 13901 |
| Main Contact for Brownfield Opportunity Areas Program | Peter Walsh | (518)474-1845 | pwalsh@dos.state.ny.us | Division of Coastal Resources 41 State Street Albany, NY 12231 |
New York State Department of Taxation and Finance
Mission Statement
The mission of the Department of Taxation and Finance (DTF) is to provide a fair system of tax administration that is accessible and responsive to taxpayers and contributes to a favorable economic climate.
Programs Applicable to Brownfields
Brownfield Cleanup Program (BCP) -- The BCP administered by the Department of Environmental Conservation provides for three tax credits that are intended to provide incentives for persons to remediate and develop brownfield sites:
Brownfield Redevelopment Credit -- Comprised of the sum of three credits for costs associated with site preparation, tangible property development (includes buildings and related structural components), and on-site groundwater cleanup.
Remediated Brownfield Credit for Real Property Taxes -- A percentage of "eligible real property taxes".
Environmental Remediation Insurance Credit -- Related to premiums paid for environmental remediation insurance.
Only costs incurred, property taxes paid or insurance premiums paid after a brownfield cleanup agreement is in effect are eligible for the credit. To be eligible for these credits, a Certificate of Completion must have been issued by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) relating to the brownfield site. A fact sheet at the following link provides information about these credits: http://www.nylovesbiz.com/pdf/environmental_zones/TFtaxsheet011604.pdf
Role in Brownfields
DTF's mission regarding the Brownfield Cleanup Program (BCP) is to administer the tax credits related to the BCP consistent with the Law and goals set forth in Section 27-1403 of the Environmental Conservation Law. DTF issues written responses to specific issues raised in the form of Advisory Opinions and Advice of Counsel. DTF will issue information about the tax credits in a Technical Service Bureau Memorandum.
Contact
Holly ChamberlinBusiness Ambassador
New York State Department of Taxation & Finance
W. A. Harriman Campus
Albany, NY 12227
Telephone: (518) 485-5080
E-mail: holly.chamberlin@tax.state.ny.us
Website: www.tax.ny.gov
New York State Department of Transportation
Mission Statement
It is the mission of the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) to ensure its customers -- those who live, work and travel in New York State -- have a safe, efficient, balanced and environmentally sound transportation system. DOT carries out this mission by coordinating and developing comprehensive transportation policies for New York's highways, railroads, mass transit systems, ports, waterways and aviation facilities, and by formulating a statewide master plan for the balanced development of public and private commuter and general transportation facilities.
Programs Applicable to Brownfields
DOT Industrial Access Program -- This program is designed to complement economic development projects where transportation access poses a problem or where unique project opportunities may exist.
Role in Brownfields
Many transportation systems in New York State were built within historical industrial corridors that would be termed brownfields today. DOT's experience in designing and building projects on contaminated sites makes DOT uniquely qualified to assist municipal and private developers with specifications and other approaches that minimize risk while advancing complex projects.
The environmental contact in each regional DOT office should be consulted when transportation and access issues are being reviewed. Roadway and rail requirements for new or expanding industries or improvements to existing systems must be coordinated with DOT. Access permits, curb cuts, right-of-way use, and other issues should be discussed early in the project to avoid delays.
DOT's Environmental Ethic incorporates environmental considerations into all aspects of the agency's activities, as DOT moves beyond compliance with permit requirements to become stewards of New York's environment.
Contact
Jeanne L. HewittHazardous Waste/Groundwater Section
Environmental Analysis Bureau
New York State Department of Transportation
Bldg. 5 Harriman State Office Campus
1220 Washington Ave.
Albany, NY 12232
Telephone: (518) 457-5672
E-mail: Jhewitt@dot.state.ny.us
Website: https://www.dot.ny.gov
See below for Regional Contacts
Department of Transportation
Regional Contact List
| County | Contact | Telephone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nassau, Suffolk | Laura Star | (631) 952-6045 | LStar@dot.state.ny.us |
| Bronx, Kings, Manhattan, Queens, Richmond | Majid Bukhari | (718) 482-4792 | MBukhari@dot.state.ny.us |
| Columbia, Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Ulster, Westchester | Jim Ayers | (845) 575-6120 | JAyers@dot.state.ny.us |
| Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, Schoharie, Sullivan | Lesley Pelotte | (607)721-8046 | LPelotte@dot.state.ny.us |
| Clinton, Franklin, Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence | John Falge | (315) 785-2343 | JFalge@dot.state.ny.us |
| Allegany, Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben, Tioga, Yates | Tom Markel | (607) 324-8370 | TMarkel@dot.state.ny.us |
| Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie | Janine Shepherd | (716) 847-5080 | JShepherd@dot.state.ny.us |
| Genessee, Livingston, Monroe, Orleans, Ontario, Wayne, Wyoming | Tom Martin | (585) 272-3366 | TMartin@dot.state.ny.us |
| Cayuga, Cortland, Onondaga, Oswego, Seneca, Tompkins | Rich Steele | (315) 448-7363 | RSteele@dot.state.ny.us |
| Fulton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Montgomery, Madison, Oneida | Elizabeth Warner Ed Frantz |
(315) 793-2481 (315) 793-2722 |
EWarner@dot.state.ny.us EFrantz@dot.state.ny.us |
| Albany, Essex, Greene, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Warren, Washington | Chris Schleede | (518) 388-0266 | CSchleede@dot.state.ny.us |
New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal
Mission Statement
The mission of the Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) is to make New York State a better place to live by supporting community efforts to preserve and expand affordable housing, home ownership and economic opportunities, and by providing equal access to safe, decent and affordable housing. DHCR performs a number of activities in fulfillment of this mission including oversight and regulation of the State's public and publicly assisted rental housing; administration of housing development and community preservation programs and the rent regulation process.
Programs Applicable to Brownfields
Low-Income Housing Credit Program (LIHC) -- This program promotes private sector involvement in the retention and production of rental housing that is reserved for low-income households. LIHC provides a dollar-for-dollar reduction in Federal tax liability for project owners who develop rental housing that serves low-income households. The amount of credit available is directly related to the number of low-income housing units that they provide. Project owners use the credit allocation as a gap filler in their development budgets.
State Low-Income Tax Credit Program -- Basically the same as the LIHC program except program eligibility is set to assist households earning up to 90 percent of the area median income rather than the 60 percent standard of the Federal LIHC. Project owners can receive a dollar-for-dollar reduction in certain New York State income taxes to be taken over a 10-year period in return for building and maintaining affordable housing for income eligible tenants for at least 15 years.
Low-Income Housing Trust Fund Program (HTF) -- Provides funding to eligible applicants to construct low-income housing, rehabilitate vacant or under-utilized residential property, or convert vacant non-residential property to residential use for occupancy by low-income homesteaders, tenants, tenant-cooperators or condominium owners. HTF can also provide seed funding to eligible non-profit applicants who need financial assistance in developing a full HTF project application.
New York State HOME Program -- Funds a variety of activities through partnerships with counties, towns, cities, villages, private developers, and community-based non-profit housing organizations. The program provides funds to acquire, rehabilitate, or construct housing, or to provide assistance to low-income home buyers and renters.
Homes for Working Families Program -- Utilizes tax-exempt bond financing and four percent as-of-right Low-Income Housing Credits with Housing Trust Fund monies as an innovative approach to financing affordable housing for low-income families and senior citizens. Applications submitted under this initiative must propose projects for substantial rehabilitation or new construction of affordable rental housing in which more than 50 percent of project cost is financed by a public authority with tax-exempt bonds allocated from the State's Private Activity Bond Volume Cap.
The Housing Development Fund (HDF) -- A revolving loan fund that provides loans to non-profit organizations to develop low-income housing projects. HDF loans may be used for pre-development costs, site acquisition, construction/rehabilitation financing, and other mortgageable project development costs. HDF loans may also be used to provide short term financing repaid from equity contributed by investors in low-income housing credit projects.
HOUSE-NY -- A new housing initiative to encourage local communities to assess their housing needs and create shovel-ready housing sites. These sites must have an established housing need and be in compliance with all zoning and environmental requirements. Upon request, DHCR will provide technical assistance to localities to help them identify suitable sites in their communities. Once potential sites are identified, the State will provide financial support and technical assistance to communities to help them bring the property through the approval stages (e.g. zoning, environmental) and make it shovel-ready or hammer-ready for housing production.
New York Main Street Program (NYMS) -- Designed to help revitalize communities by funding building renovations, downtown business or cultural anchors and streetscape enhancements that are ancillary to other program activities. NYMS will provide funding on a competitive basis to not-for-profit organizations, not-for-profit Business Improvement Districts, or not-for-profit charitable organizations who will serve as Local Program Administrators and in turn administer local grant programs intended to stimulate Main Street revitalization efforts.
Role in Brownfields
DHCR provides funding for low- and moderate-income housing opportunities. Environmental staff conduct environmental reviews for all State and Federally funded housing projects. For those funded projects located on brownfields, DHCR staff consult with the Department of Environmental Conservation to ensure that an approved remediation plan exists for the site. Staff also consult with the Department of Health to ensure that human health exposure issues are addressed prior to occupancy. Other agencies are consulted as needed.
Contact
Leslie J. Adler, RADirector, Design Services Unit
NYS Division of Housing and Community Renewal
38-40 State Street
Albany, NY 12207
Telephone: (518) 474-1030
E-mail: ladler@dhcr.state.ny.us
Website: www.www.nyshcr.org
<See below for Regional Contacts
NYS Division of Housing and Community Renewal
Regional Contact List
| County | Contact | Telephone | Mailing Address | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bronx, Kings, Nassau, Manhattan, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Westchester | Earnest Langhorne | (631)444-0240 | ELanghorne@dhcr.state.ny.us | NewYorkRegionalOffice 25 Beaver Street New York, NY 10004 |
| Albany, Clinton, Columbia, Delaware, Dutchess, Essex, Fulton, Greene, Hamilton, Montgomery, Orange, Otsego, Putnam, Rennselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Sullivan, Ulster, Warren, Washington | James Armstrong | (518) 486-5011 | JArmstrong@dhcr.state.ny.us | Capital District Regional Office Hampton Plaza -- 9th Fl. 38-40 State Street Albany, NY 12207 |
| Broome, Cayuga, Chenango, Cortland, Franklin, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego, St. Lawrence, Tompkins, Tioga | Lois Holden | (315) 473-6929 | LHolden@dhcr.state.ny.us | Syracuse Regional Office PO Box 1127 Syracuse, NY 13201 |
| Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chemung, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Niagara, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, Yates | Leonard Skrill | (716) 842-2244 (x239) | LSkrill@dhcr.state.ny.us | Buffalo Regional Office Statler Towers 107 Delaware Avenue Suite 600 Buffalo, NY 14202 |
Empire State Development
Mission Statement
Empire State Development (ESD), the organizational name that encompasses the Department of Economic Development and the Empire State Development Corporation, is dedicated to providing assistance and service to businesses and local governments in order to encourage economic investment and job creation in New York State.
Programs Applicable to Brownfields
In addition to being an environmental program, the Brownfield Cleanup Program (BCP) is an economic development vehicle as well. ESD has numerous programs and institutional resources available to assist developers and municipalities in selecting and marketing brownfield sites for redevelopment. Among the programs that offer financial incentives (e.g., tax credits, matching grants) to developers are the following:
Empire Zones Program -- The purpose of this program is to give companies that increase employment the opportunity to operate on an almost "tax-free" basis for up to 10 years in designated areas of the State, with additional savings available on a declining basis in years 11 through 15.
Wired Buildings Program -- Wired Building grant funding can be used to cover design/engineering, material and labor costs associated with upgrading a building's telecommunications infrastructure to high-speed internet connection standards. Eligible applicants include private real estate developers, local economic development authorities, educational institutions and public-private partnerships that have a common goal of improving telecommunications infrastructure.
Environmental Investment Program -- Provides funding for capital investments, research, development and demonstration, and technical assistance projects that produce measurable results in pollution prevention, reuse, and recycling. Eligible applicants include qualified small and medium-sized New York State businesses, non-profit organizations and municipalities on behalf of New York State businesses.
Build Now - NY Program -- The program offers "shovel-ready" sites pre-permitted for building and expansion. Wage, tax, utility and land cost analyses are already prepared, as are details on infrastructure, sewer, water and transportation access.
ESD also has the ability to provide funding for workforce training for private employers. In addition to its programs, ESD has at its disposal a wealth of economic and demographic information that can assist municipalities and developers in planning commercial opportunities for redeveloped sites.
Role in Brownfields
ESD's new Brownfields Program will market both the BCP as well as individual sites. ESD is well-situated to match sites with developers. Further, some of the financial incentives offered by ESD may be available to BCP participants. ESD will become a "one-stop-shopping" destination for developers and municipalities interested in brownfields for commercial and industrial reuse.
Contact
Joseph AmiconeDirector, Brownfield Programming
Empire State Development
30 South Pearl Street
Albany, NY 12245
Telephone: (518) 292-5100
Fax: (518) 292-5812
E-mail: jamicone@empire.state.ny.us
Website: www.empire.state.ny.us
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
Mission Statement
Use innovation and technology to solve some of New York's most difficult energy and environmental problems in ways that improve the State's economy. New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) places a premium on objective analysis, as well as collaboration, reaching out to solicit multiple perspectives and share information. NYSERDA is committed to public service, striving to be a model of what taxpayers want their government to be: effective, flexible, responsive, and efficient.
Programs applicable to Brownfields
New York Energy $mart New Construction Program -- Funds eligible building owners to increase the energy efficiency of new construction and major renovations of buildings. Additionally, NYSERDA funds programs for research and development of innovative energy saving systems and renewable energy projects.
New York Energy $mart Commercial and Industrial Performance Program (CIPP) -- Provides performance-based incentives to contractors implementing cost-effective electrical efficiency improvements or demand reduction for eligible customers. Industrial and commercial businesses, State and local governments, not-for-profit and private institutions, colleges and universities, public and private schools, and health-care facilities that are electric distribution customers of various utilities are eligible.
FlexTech Program -- Focuses on increasing productivity and economic competitiveness by identifying and encouraging the implementation of cost-effective energy-efficiency measures. NYSERDA will cost-share up to 50% of project costs with a maximum contribution of $50,000 by NYSERDA.
Role in Brownfields
If the brownfield site has existing buildings to be rehabilitated or new buildings are to be constructed on the site, NYSERDA should be contacted to determine if funding is available to install high-energy efficient systems to save future energy costs. Each energy utility provider should also be contacted to determine if reduced energy rates are available at the site due to inclusion in an Empire Zone or other programs designed to encourage brownfield development.
Contact
Chris ReohrNew York State Energy Research and Development Authority
17 Columbia Circle
Albany, New York 12203
Telephone: (518) 862-1090 ext.3363 or 1-866-NYSERDA
Fax: (518) 862-1091
E-mail: cjr@nyserda.org
Website: nyserda.ny.gov
New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation
Mission Statement
The Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) mission is to promote environmental quality by providing low-cost capital and expert technical assistance to municipalities, businesses and State agencies for environmental projects in New York State. Its purpose is to help public and private entities comply with Federal and State environmental requirements.
Programs Applicable to Brownfields
EFC administers several programs designed to provide low-interest financing to municipalities for capital costs of water pollution control facilities and land acquisition for water quality protection. Low interest loans and State assistance payments are available for public and private water system infrastructure improvements.
Industrial Finance Program -- Under this program, the capital cost of brownfield remediation and other environmental compliance projects can be financed with tax-exempt or taxable bonds.
Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) -- Applicants can obtain interest-free short-term or low-interest long-term financing for facilities that reduce or prevent water pollution. Water quality protection portions of brownfield projects generally are eligible for CWSRF financing.
Role in Brownfields
Applications must be submitted to EFC for financing. A pre-meeting with EFC is recommended to ensure availability of funding and project eligibility. EFC programs are available to municipalities, community based organizations and business applicants depending on facilities to be financed.
Contact
David StermanExecutive Vice President
Environmental Facilities Corporation
625 Broadway
Albany, New York 12207-2997
Telephone: (518) 402-6951
E-mail: sterman@nysefc.org
Website: www.nysefc.org/
Governor's Office of Regulatory Reform
Mission Statement
Governor's Office of Regulatory Reform (GORR) emphasizes the importance of common sense, prudent science, and sound economics in the regulatory process. It carefully balances costs and benefits of all regulatory procedures. It assesses risks and measures the impacts of regulatory reform in ways all New Yorkers can appreciate --lower costs, fewer rules, and higher quality rulemaking while protecting safety and environmental concerns.
Programs applicable to Brownfields
GORR works through four primary teams whose jurisdiction includes multiple agencies. The teams are: Development, Health and Human Services and Labor/Worker Compensation. There is also a specialized Permit Assistance team. Each team has a team leader, an attorney, and a research analyst. Teams include staff with professional credentials in business, health, engineering, law, and other pertinent areas.
Role in Brownfields
GORR oversees the regulatory process of all State agencies, including all brownfield and superfund regulations. GORR attempts to understand how regulations were developed, what they intended to do and how they will move forward. The office will monitor the translation of brownfield legislation and policy into regulations with an eye to protecting citizens and natural and cultural resources while enhancing program efficiency and eliminating bureaucracy and red tape. It will also play a leadership role in facilitating coordination of regulatory protocols between agencies.
Contact
David S. Bradley, Deputy DirectorGovernors Office for Regulatory Reform
Agency Building 1 -- 4th Floor
PO Box 2107
Empire State Plaza
Albany, NY 12220-0107
Telephone: (518) 486-3292
Email: dbradley@GORR.state.ny.us
Website: www.gorr.state.ny.us (web site no longer exists)
Governor's Office for Small Cities
Mission Statement
The Governor's Office for Small Cities (GOSC) administers the Community Development Block Grant program for New York State. This program provides grants to smaller communities to ensure decent affordable housing for all, to provide services to the most vulnerable in our communities, to create jobs and expand business opportunities for implementing a variety of community and economic development activities directed toward neighborhood revitalization and economic development, and to provide improved community facilities and services.
Programs Applicable to Brownfields
Community Development Block Grant Program -- Provides funding for low- and moderate-income housing and infrastructure related to providing those services. Communities must have fewer than 50,000 residents or be in a county of less than 200,000 residents.
Role in Brownfields
Applicants including housing for low- or moderate-income residents should contact GOSC early in the project to determine eligibility for funding for housing or related infrastructure improvements.
Contact
Kenneth FloodDeputy Director
Governor's Office for Small Cities
Agency Building 4 -- 6th Floor
Albany, NY 12223
Telephone: (518) 474-2057
E-mail: kflood@smallcities.state.ny.us
Website: nysdhcr.gov/AboutUs/Offices/CommunityRenewal
New York State Insurance Department
Mission Statement
The Insurance Department is responsible for supervising and regulating all insurance business in New York State. The Department's mission is to:
- Ensure the continued sound and prudent conduct of insurers' financial operations;
- Provide fair, timely and equitable fulfillment of insurer obligations;
- Protect policyholders from financially impaired or insolvent insurers;
- Eliminate fraud, other criminal abuse and unethical conduct in the industry; and
- Foster growth of the insurance industry in the State.
The Department carries out its supervisory function by issuing licenses to agents, brokers, consultants, reinsurance intermediaries, adjusters, and bail bondsmen; conducting examinations of insurers to determine their financial condition, treatment of policyholders and claimants, and underwriting practices; and auditing each company's annual reports.
The Department carries out its regulatory function by determining qualifications of insurers; regulating rates, certain retirement systems and pension funds; reviewing policyholders'complaints; supervising the liquidation, rehabilitation, and conservation of insolvent insurers; and approving corporate formations, mergers, and consolidations.
Role in Brownfields
Chapter 1 of the Laws of 2003 added Section 3447 to the Insurance Law which provides that the Superintendent is authorized to promulgate regulations relating to the certification of policies of insurance which qualify for the environmental remediation insurance tax credit provided for under Section 23 of the Tax Law. The insurance tax credit applies to taxable years beginning on or after April 1, 2005. Regulations are being developed that will provide guidance for insurers on the minimum standards for an environmental remediation insurance policy form which will enable an insurer to certify to the Department of Taxation and Finance that the policy qualifies for the environmental remediation insurance tax credit provided for under Section 23 of the Tax Law.
Contacts
Benita Hirsch, CPCUSupervising Examiner
New York State Insurance Department
25 Beaver St.
New York, NY 10004
Telephone: (212) 480-5595
Email: bhirsch@dfs.ny.gov
Website: www.dfs.ny.gov
or
Eugene Nunziata
Telephone: (212) 480-5460
Email: enunziat@dfs.ny.gov
Licensed Market Insurance Availability
Bruce AscherAssociate Examiner, Liability Unit
Property Bureau
New York State Insurance Department
25 Beaver St.
New York, NY 10004
Telephone: (212) 480-5558
Email: bascher@dfs.ny.gov
Unlicensed Market Insurance Availability
Dan Maher, Executive DirectorExcess Line Association of New York (ELANY)
One Exchange Plaza/55 Broadway, 29th floor
New York, NY 10006-3728
Telephone: (646) 292-5555
Fax: (646) 292-5505
E-mail: dmaher@elany.org
Website: www.elany.org
New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation
Mission Statement
The New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) is charged with the planning, maintenance and oversight of many of New York State's recreational assets. Historic buildings, property and out structures are identified and protected for future generations.
Programs Applicable to Brownfields
Historic Preservation Program -- Provides matching grants for the acquisition and/or rehabilitation of properties listed on the National or State Registers of Historic Places.
Heritage Areas Program -- Provides grants for legislatively designated Heritage Areas to fund the expansion or enhancement of public access to water bodies, and to promote water-based recreation, or to enhance the natural, cultural or historic aspects of water bodies.
Parks Program -- Provides matching grants for the acquisition and/or development of parks and recreational facilities and for the protection of open space. Funds may be awarded to indoor or outdoor projects and must reflect the priorities established in the State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP).
Role in Brownfields
OPRHP can provide technical assistance to identify Statewide-planning efforts and historic preservation requirements that may impact cleanup and/or redevelopment of a brownfield site. Funding for project development may be available to support implementation of the redevelopment.
Contact
Kevin BurnsChief of Grants
New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation
Agency Bldg. 1
Empire State Plaza
Albany, NY
Telephone: (518) 474-0427
E-mail: Kevin.Burns@oprhp.state.ny.us
Website: www.nysparks.state.ny.us
<See below for Regional Contacts
Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation
Regional Contact List
| County | Contact | Telephone | Mailing Address | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nassau, Suffolk | Carolyn Casey | (631)669-1000 | Carolyn.Casey@oprhp.state.ny.us | Belmont Lake State Park PO Box 247 Babylon,NY11702 |
| Bronx, Kings, Manhattan, Queens, Richmond | Merrill Hesch | (212) 866-2599 | Merrill.Hesch@oprhp.state.ny.us | NYS OPRHP Grants Office Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Building 163 West 125th St., 17th Fl. New York, NY 10027 |
| Columbia, Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, Westchester | Ron Rader | (845) 889-4100 | Ronald.Rader@oprhp.state.ny.us | Staatsburgh State Historic Site Staatsburgh, NY 12580 |
| Albany, Essex, Fulton, Greene, Montgomery, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Warren, Washington | John Albert | (518) 584-2000 | John.Albert@oprhp.state.ny.us | Saratoga Spa State Park 19 Roosevelt Drive Saratoga Springs, NY 12866-6214 |
| Clinton, Franklin, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence | James Noon | (315) 482-2593 | James.Noon@oprhp.state.ny.us | Keewaydin State Park Alexandria Bay, NY 13607 |
| Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Herkimer, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Otsego, Oswego | Jean Egenhofer | (315) 492-1756 | Jean.Egenhofer@oprhp.state.ny.us | Clark Reservation Jamesville, NY 13078-9516 |
| Cayuga, Chemung, Ontario, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Tioga, Tompkins, Wayne, Yates | Kathleen Damiani | (607) 387-7041 | Kathleen.Damiani@oprhp.state.ny.us | Clark Reservation Jamesville, NY 13078-9516 |
| Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Orleans, Wyoming | Leo Downey | (585) 493-3613 | Leo.Downey@oprhp.state.ny.us | Letchworth State Park Castile, NY 14427-1124 |
| Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua | Lynn LeFeber | (716) 354-9101 | Lynn.LeFeber@oprhp.state.ny.us | Allegany State Park RD 1 Salamanca, NY 14779 |
| Erie, Niagara | Noelle Kardos | (716) 278-1719 | Noelle.Kardos@oprhp.state.ny.us | Niagara Reservation Niagara Falls, NY 14303 |
SUNY Center for Brownfield Studies
Mission Statement
To provide students, industries, governments and non-profit organizations with expertise, disciplines, and skills necessary to remediate and redevelop brownfields.
Programs Applicable to Brownfields
The Center for Brownfield Studies (the Center) is an educational and technical assistance initiative of the State University of New York System. It provides leadership and guidance for environmental remediation and redevelopment of contaminated properties. The Center delivers: Academic/Educational Programs, Community Support/Information Programs, Research/Development Programs and Government Agency Support Programs. These initiatives provide citizens, students, staff and practitioners with administrative/technical support, information and skills to address planning, engineering, regulatory, real estate, business, environmental and administrative issues so that negatively impacted properties can be returned to productive use.
Role in Brownfields
The Center is an educational, advisory and technical guidance resource. It draws from the resources of all 64 campuses and 22,000 faculty in SUNY to deliver its programs. The Center is not a consultant, a developer, a unit of government or a State agency. Rather, it is a support system for all of these strategic stakeholders. Its services are intended to develop capacity and provide technical guidance and logistical information so that stakeholders in brownfield remediation and redevelopment can better perform their respective roles and functions.
Contact
Preston S. Gilbert, DirectorSUNY Center for Brownfield Studies
Marshall Hall Room 331
SUNY Environmental Science and Forestry
Syracuse, New York 13210
Telephone: (315) 470-4722
Email: prestongilbert@esf.edu
Website: http://sunybrownfields.esf.edu
