Oklahoma’s Department of Commerce recently unveiled The Economic Impact of Oklahoma’s Brownfields Program, demonstrating notable economic successes over the past 20 years that should resonate with the new Administration and Congress. The program revitalizes downtrodden areas throughout Oklahoma urban centers.
For properties participating in the state’s program since 1998, Brownfields projects have created 2,162 jobs, increased payrolls by nearly $116.7 million, boosted retail sales by $85.5million, and generated state sales and income tax revenues of almost $10.1 million.
Furthermore, the program helped revitalize downtown areas in major cities like Tulsa and Oklahoma City through sustainable, green redevelopment of these commercial properties. EPA has indicated that that every acre of Brownfield successfully redeveloped helps to preserve 4.5 acres of unused green space.
Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett describes the Brownfields program as a “win-win” for all parties involved, across the political spectrum. It creates jobs, cleans up the environment, and is “pro-business and pro-community.”
