Urban Development | Brownfield Loan Program

Program Summary

The Brownfield Loan Program is a partnership between the Ohio Water Development Authority and the Ohio Department of Development. It provides below-market-rate loans for the assessment, cleanup, and/or demolition of brownfield sites. The projects will stimulate economic development on former brownfield sites resulting in newly created or retained jobs.


Eligible Areas

Projects must occur on an existing brownfield. Property must have contamination from hazardous substances greater than applicable standards. Environmental assessment activities must be complete, remedy planned, and costs known at time of application for cleanup funds.

The project must result in new economic development with a current or committed known-end user with a business plan or a redevelopment plan demonstrating future development opportunities.

Eligible Applicants

Local forms of government, as well as private entities (including current owners who have caused or contributed to the contamination) are eligible to apply. Borrowers must own or control the property and have the ability to repay.

Eligible Costs

Loan funds can be used for assessment, demolition, remediation, and consultant costs.

Loan Details

Loans for assessment can be made up to $500,000, and loans for cleanup can be made up to $5 million. Both will be offered at below-market interest rates and have a maximum repayment period of 10 years. The Ohio Department of Development and the applicant will work together to establish the specific terms of the loan agreement.

Applicants are encouraged to provide matching funds but are not required.

Application Period

Applications are accepted on an open cycle. All materials can be found under Program Materials to the right.

Contact Us

For questions or comments regarding the Brownfield Loan Program, please contact the Urban Development Division at (614) 995-2292, or by clicking e-mail us.