Water money could be diverted to brownfield cleanup

In 2002, Michigan voters approved a proposal that made $1 billion in loans available to communities for projects to improve water quality. But despite a serious need for sewer and water system upgrades around the state, about $600 million in loans remain unused because many communities can’t afford to take on new projects.

Now the Legislature is working on a law that would let that money be spent on cleanup at polluted industrial sties.

The Capital News Service reports that state Sen. Patty Birkholz (R-Saugatuck) is pushing a bill that would allocate about $250 million of the remaining water project money for brownfield projects.

The goal of brownfield cleanup is to get rid of contaminated soil and water so the land can be reused. Birkholz said businesses could then build in cities rather in rural areas, and that brownfield projects could also reduce groundwater pollution.

However, [Cyndi Roper of Michigan Clean Water Action] said water and sewer systems need the money more. She said state estimates for water infrastructure repair is about $2 billion.

“We could use double the amount voters approved,” she said.

Detroit and 126 suburbs share a public water system that is in particular need, Roper said.

“It’s also the oldest infrastructure in the state,” Roper said. “And they are managing a lot of the wastewater for Southeast Michigan.”

Birkholz told the News Service that she expects her measure to pass this year.