Congressman Sorensen Announces $500,000 Federal Grant to Support Brownfield Cleanup in Rockford
ROCKFORD, IL - Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) today announced that the City of Rockford will receive a $500,000 federal grant to clean up and revitalize brownfield sites — properties where redevelopment is complicated by the presence or potential presence of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants.
This funding, provided through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), will allow Rockford to inventory, assess, and plan cleanups of properties that can be transformed into safe, productive spaces for the community.
“Cleaning up these sites will open doors for new development, safer neighborhoods, and economic growth here in Rockford,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “I’m proud to help secure federal investments that improve the environment, protect public health, and support the hardworking people of our region.”
“U.S. EPA Brownfields grants have been an incredible catalyst for redevelopment in our historically urban areas. In fact, the City has one of the highest return on investment ratios in the County from the use of these funds,” said Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara. “Grant funds continue to spark transformative projects, much like the UW Health Sports Factory and Embassy Suites Riverfront Hotel—both of which were made possible through similar funding support."
Under this grant, the City of Rockford will:
- Conduct approximately 25 environmental site assessments
- Develop site-specific cleanup plans and analyses of cleanup alternatives
- Host community meetings
- Begin planning documents to kick-start brownfield revitalization
The project will also employ a Qualified Environmental Professional to carry out site activities, as well as track progress through the EPA’s Assessment, Cleanup and Redevelopment Exchange System (ACRES).
This work will benefit residents, business owners, and stakeholders in and around Rockford by reducing health risks, encouraging new investments, and laying the groundwork for future growth.