Michigan Expands Brownfield Funding to Support Community Redevelopment

Michigan is increasing its investment in brownfield redevelopment, providing communities with more support to clean up contaminated properties and bring underutilized sites back into productive use. According to updates shared by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), the FY26 state budget includes $77.6 million for the Renew Michigan program, which funds environmental cleanup, waste management, recycling, and sustainability efforts across the state.

New legislation introduced by State Representative Alabas Farhat would further strengthen Michigan’s Brownfield Redevelopment Grant and Loan Program. These are significant proposed changes, raising the cap on individual grant and loan awards from $1 million to $2 million, allowing communities to pursue multiple projects per year, and updating eligibility for activities such as demolition and asbestos abatement. The legislation also aims to simplify the application process and reduce cost-share barriers for municipalities that own contaminated property.

EGLE notes that brownfield redevelopment continues to play an important role in Michigan’s economic and environmental progress. Since 2019, the program has supported hundreds of projects, leveraged billions in private investment, and helped return long-vacant sites to productive use.

These updates represent a major shift in the level of support available to Michigan communities. ASTI Environmental remains committed to helping municipalities, developers, and property owners understand how these changes may impact their projects. If you have questions about brownfield funding or redevelopment strategies, our team is here to help. Updates courtesy of EGLE.

 Learn more about ASTIs experience with brownfield redevelopment here.

Learn more about EGLE’s Brownfield Redevelopment Program here.