How Brownfield Grants Transform Abandoned Industrial Sites

Abandoned factories, environmental hazards, and millions in lost potential — until now.
In this episode of Along the Rock, host Nathan Stahr sits down with Robbin Blackert, City Administrator of Rock Falls, to discuss how Brownfield Grants are helping communities reclaim contaminated industrial sites and turn them into thriving developments.
From the cleanup of the historic Northwestern Steel and Wire property to the creation of new parks and businesses, discover how Rock Falls is leading the way in sustainable revitalization.
🎧 Watch now on The Radar: https://theradar.online/along-the-rock-s2-ep-160-how-brownfield-grants-transform-abandoned-industrial-sites/

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🎤 Timestamps & Highlights:

00:25 – 01:11 🏭 What Is a Brownfield?
01:11 – 02:28 ⚙️ Brownfields Across the Midwest
02:28 – 03:06 🔥 The RB&W Site Fire and Cleanup
03:06 – 04:18 🏨 Turning Cleanup into Development
04:18 – 05:24 💰 Funding the Cleanups
05:24 – 06:06 Multipurpose Grant Explained
06:06 – 07:00 🏘️ Community Input & Awareness
07:00 – 08:02 🏠 Residential Impacts & Old Gas Stations
08:02 – 09:28 🌎 Who Pays for It?
09:28 – 11:15 🚧 How Cleanup Works
11:15 – 12:18 🏆 EPA Recognition & Rapid Success
12:18 – 13:59 🗣️ Other Cities & Long-Term Progress
13:59 – 15:22 🌅 Future Development Plans
15:22 – 16:12 💧 Environmental Challenges
16:12 – 17:04 🏅 State Recognition & Looking Ahead

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