The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded a $500,000 Brownfields Assessment Grant to the City of Pine Bluff. The funding is designated to support environmental site assessments, cleanup planning, and revitalization initiatives for properties within the city, with a focus on the Pine Bluff Downtown Development District.
Key sites targeted for revitalization include the historic Saenger Theatre, Hotel Pines, and the former Pine Bluff Bus Terminal. These locations have been identified as high-priority brownfield sites—properties whose redevelopment may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of hazardous substances.
“The Brownfields program exemplifies Administrator Lee Zeldin’s goal of ‘Powering the Great American Comeback’ by addressing contamination while fostering local economic development,” said EPA Regional Administrator Scott Mason. “During the Trump Administration’s first 100 days, we designated 27 Brownfield sites as Ready for Anticipated Reuse. This status helps eliminate barriers to investment by assuring businesses that the sites are safe for redevelopment.”
The assessment grant will fund critical activities including site inventories, environmental assessments, and community outreach. These efforts are expected to accelerate the transformation of underutilized properties into vibrant, productive spaces that contribute to economic growth and public health.
“This investment is a significant step toward revitalizing key areas of Pine Bluff,” said city officials. “We look forward to leveraging these federal resources to attract new development and enhance the quality of life for our residents.”
The Brownfields Assessment Grant is part of a nationwide EPA initiative aimed at promoting sustainable redevelopment and economic resilience in communities affected by industrial decline or environmental degradation.
