Planning to Host Inaugural Conference, Toward Beneficial Reuse, November 16-17

Planning in Progress  

by Kristen E. Humphrey, MLA, Local Assistance and Training Planner  

Over two half-days in November, the Maryland Department of Planning (Planning) will host the Inaugural Maryland Statewide Brownfield Conference – Toward Beneficial Reuse. The conference is part of Planning’s ongoing commitment to the principles of smart growth, which encourage brownfield redevelopment.

The Environmental Protection Agency defines a brownfield as a “property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant.”  

The conference provides a forum for local governments, consultants, attorneys, developers, and non-governmental organizations to learn and share information about brownfields. A key goal is to further and promote awareness about the processes and technologies that move brownfields toward beneficial reuse in Maryland.  

Conference topics will range from brownfield fundamentals to a deeper dive into more technical aspects of assessing brownfields and their redevelopment. Presentations include federal and state technical and financial assistance options; siting solar facilities on brownfields; cleanup challenges at former dry-cleaning facilities; and local government brownfield case studies.   

Conference highlights include: 

• Keynote address by Aaron Tomarchio and Peter Haid of Tradepoint Atlantic  
• Federal Brownfields Assistance (EPA and HUD) 
• The Basics of PCE Drycleaner Contamination (AEC Environmental and GTA Engineering) 
• Various hot topics including: VCP Fee Waivers for Renewable Energy Projects; Reuse of Dredge Material; and how to utilize the Terradex System, Miss Utility, and the LRP Map (MDE and Maryland Port Authority) 

…And that’s just on Day One! 

Other session topics include a walkthrough of the site closure process, developer perspectives, and lessons learned by local governments. 

While the conference will be conducted virtually via GoToWebinar, attendees will have opportunities for in-person participation through brownfield tours organized across the state, followed by social gathering and networking events at nearby restaurants or local breweries. Optional wellness activities will be offered at the start of each day to invigorate attendees, including a virtual coffee break and a virtual yoga session. 

So, be sure to register for Maryland’s first-of-its-kind conference today and be a part of this growing redevelopment trend!  

To learn more about Planning’s Inaugural Statewide Brownfield Conference, please contact Sylvia Mosser, AICP, Resource Conservation Planner at sylvia.mosser@maryland.gov or (410) 767-4487 and be sure to follow Planning Practice Monthly for announcements and updates.