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Surface and subsurface geologic risk factors to ground water affecting brownfield redevelopment potential
Martin M Kaufman1, Kent S Murray, Daniel T Rogers
1Dep. of Earth and Resource Science, Univ. of Michigan-Flint, Flint, MI 48502, USA. martyk@umflint.edu
Journal of Environmental Quality
|April 24, 2003
Summary
A new model assesses brownfield redevelopment potential by analyzing site risks and contamination. Clay-rich geologic units show lower subsurface contamination vulnerability, guiding remediation and redevelopment priorities.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Geology
- Urban Planning
Background:
- Brownfields pose redevelopment challenges due to potential surface and subsurface risks.
- Assessing redevelopment potential requires understanding site-specific risk factors and contamination levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and apply a model for assessing brownfield redevelopment potential.
- To identify and measure surface and subsurface risk factors influencing redevelopment.
- To correlate risk factors with actual remediation costs and guide prioritization.
Main Methods:
- A space and time conceptual framework was used to identify and measure risk factors.
- A contamination extent multiplier was integrated into the model.
- The model was applied to brownfield sites within an urbanized watershed.
Main Results:
- Clear differences in redevelopment potential were observed across five near-surface geologic units.
- Geologic units containing clay exhibited less vulnerability to subsurface contamination.
- Total site risk strongly correlated with actual remediation costs, with or without the extent multiplier.
Conclusions:
- The developed model effectively assesses brownfield redevelopment potential.
- Geologic characteristics, particularly clay content, influence subsurface contamination vulnerability.
- Watershed-scale risk assessment can guide remediation efforts and prioritize redevelopment locations.