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The Flint Hills Regional Council (FHRC) has received a $1 million Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) Grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

This grant aims to assist communities in cleaning and redeveloping contaminated or underutilized properties, with a focus on economic and community revitalization.

Established in 1995, the EPA’s Brownfields Program helps local entities address environmental contamination. Through the RLF grant, FHRC will offer low-interest loans to eligible recipients, particularly targeting rural areas where remediation funding is scarce. Regional Planner Janna Williams noted that cleaned-up sites, especially in rural downtowns, could be repurposed into businesses, housing, or public-use areas.

These projects are expected to boost local economies, create employment, and enhance the tax base. Funding availability is projected to begin in early fall.