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Newly Designated BDAs Foster Sustainable Development
Monday, September 15, 2025 09:46 AM
By Charlene Drake, LSRP Terraphase Engineering 

Through the Brownfield Development Area (BDA) program, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection looks to strategically coordinate the transformation of clusters of blighted properties into thriving centers of economic and community revitalization. 

What Are Brownfield Development Areas? 

A BDA is a designated zone that includes at least two brownfield sites within a contiguous area. These areas are selected based on: 
  • Their alignment with distinct neighborhood boundaries 
  • The potential to improve public health, safety, and environmental conditions. 
  • Strong community support for redevelopment 
By grouping multiple brownfields into a single development area, NJDEP facilitates coordinated remediation and reuse efforts, ensuring that revitalization occurs efficiently and with broad stakeholder engagement. 13 New BDAs in 10 municipalities were announced to add to the 29 original BDAs in 27 municipalities. You can find them here: https://dep.nj.gov/srp/brownfields/bda/ 

Funding & Support for Brownfield Redevelopment 

One of the key drivers of brownfield redevelopment in New Jersey is the Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund (HDSRF). As of mid-2025, the fund has $70.7 million available to support cleanup efforts. This “at-a-glance” resource https://dep.nj.gov/srp/finance/hdsrf/hdsrf-chart/ summarizes funding alternatives. The NJDEP and New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) jointly administer the HDSRF.  The NJEDA has several other funding programs that may be used for brownfield redevelopment projects such as the Brownfield Redevelopment Incentive Program (BRIP).The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) also has funding programs for brownfield redevelopment projects such as funds for assessment and cleanup. 

When a site is located within a designated BDA, public entities (like municipalities or redevelopment agencies) become eligible for enhanced funding through the HDSRF. Specifically, they can receive: 
  • 100% of the costs for preliminary assessments, site investigations, and remedial investigations. 
  • Up to 75% of the costs for remedial actions—but only if there’s a demonstrated commitment to redevelopment. 
  • Up to $5 million per year (non-BDA municipalities are eligible for up to $3 million per year). 
HDSRF funding can also be used for sites outside of designated BDAs, but the level of funding and eligibility criteria may differ. For example, the BDA designation is not required for municipalities to apply for HDSRF and site control is required for PA/SI/RI grants. 

NJDEP’s Office of Brownfield & Community Revitalization plays a crucial role in guiding municipalities, developers, and community organizations through the remediation process. By leveraging state and federal funding, BDAs can attract investment while ensuring environmental compliance. 

A Legacy of Lasting Impact 

After 35 years with the NJDEP, Franklin B. McLaughlin III  announced his retirement as the Manager of the Office of Brownfield and Community Redevelopment.  On behalf of the LSRPA, we thank Frank for his dedicated and passionate service to the state of New Jersey. He leaves behind a legacy of successful BDA projects. One particularly transformative project was the Cramer Hill Waterfront Park, https://dep.nj.gov/nrr/restoration/completed-restoration-projects/cramer-hill-waterfront-park/, which converted an abandoned landfill into a 62-acre recreational space.

As we look to the future, continued support for brownfield redevelopment will be crucial in fostering sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for residents across New Jersey.  If you are working on a site within a designated BDA, contact NJDEP’s Office of Brownfield & Community Revitalization for guidance https://dep.nj.gov/srp/brownfields/.