Region 9 Excellence in Site Reuse Award
Region 9
Region 9 supports the reuse of Superfund sites in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada and tribal nations that make up the Region. Stakeholder cooperation and partnerships are crucial for the successful reuse of Superfund sites in ways that are compatible with the remedy in place, while also addressing needs of the community, site owners, and state and local governments. Region 9 created its Excellence in Site Reuse Award to recognize those who have supported the reuse and redevelopment of Superfund sites through outstanding efforts that go above and beyond required cleanup.
Region 9 strongly supports reuse and redevelopment as important parts of the cleanup process. Many communities, developers, site owners and local governments have worked closely with Region 9 to enhance cleanup, minimize the Agency’s responsibilities for long-term care and maintenance, promote long-term stewardship, and provide economic, environmental or social benefits to local communities.
The Excellence in Site Reuse award can be given to a developer, site owner, responsible party, tribe, local government or other key stakeholder who has demonstrated excellence in working cooperatively with Region 9. Superfund reuse should complement cleanup and may play a key role in ensuring that site remedies remain protective in the future.
Evaluation Criteria for Excellence in Site Reuse Award
- Enhancement of the selected remedy.
- Reduction of EPA’s long-term stewardship responsibilities.
- Benefit/effect on the local community.
- Implementation of sustainable practices.
- Design of reuse complementary with long-term implementation of the selected remedy.
- Enhanced monitoring of institutional controls (neighborhood watch).
- Innovation in creative thinking and effective use of partnerships.
EPA Region 9 Deputy Regional Administrator Deborah Jordan speaks during the Excellence in Site Reuse Award ceremony.On July 31st, 2019, EPA Region 9 presented the Excellence in Site Reuse Award to Operating Industries, Inc. Site Custodial Trust, the city of Monterey Park and M&M Realty Partners for their efforts to redevelop the Operating Industries Inc. Landfill Superfund site in Monterey Park, California. A retail center constructed on site hosts a variety of stores, restaurants and parking. Additional redevelopment opportunities exist at the site, including solar development potential.