Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund

The Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund is administered by the State of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and is designed to support the investigation and cleanup of contaminated brownfield sites. The program is funded through a constitutionally dedicated portion of the New Jersey Corporate Business Tax, which provides a stable annual funding pool typically ranging from ten million to fifteen million dollars. This funding structure ensures ongoing availability of resources to address hazardous substance discharges and promote environmental remediation and redevelopment across the state. The primary purpose of the program is to facilitate the cleanup of hazardous substances and hazardous waste at brownfield sites, with a strong emphasis on enabling redevelopment. The fund provides financial assistance in the form of grants and loans to both public and private entities. Public entities, including municipalities, counties, and redevelopment authorities, are eligible for substantial grant support, while private entities may access a combination of loans and partial grants. The program is structured to encourage redevelopment commitments, particularly in designated Brownfield Development Areas, where enhanced funding opportunities are available. Funding can be used for multiple phases of site remediation, including preliminary assessment, site investigation, remedial investigation, and remedial action. Public entities may receive up to one hundred percent of costs for assessment and investigation activities, and up to seventy five percent of remediation costs depending on project type and location. Additional incentives exist for projects involving recreation, conservation, renewable energy, or affordable housing. Private entities, particularly those with limited financial capacity, may receive loans covering up to one hundred percent of remediation costs and grants covering a portion of cleanup activities under specific conditions. Eligibility requirements vary based on applicant type. Public entities must demonstrate a clear commitment to redevelopment, typically through formal resolutions or comprehensive plans, and must provide documentation of ownership or intent to acquire the property. Private entities must demonstrate financial need, including inability to secure conventional financing, and may be subject to net worth limitations for grant eligibility. The program distinguishes between funding for assessment and remediation activities and applies different cost share percentages depending on project characteristics and intended site use. The application process is structured as a rolling submission, allowing applicants to apply at any time. Applicants must complete the official application form and provide supporting documentation demonstrating eligibility, project scope, and redevelopment intent. While no formal notification timeline is specified, applications are reviewed based on completeness and alignment with program objectives. The absence of a fixed deadline allows for continuous intake, making the program accessible throughout the year. Funding limitations are clearly defined, with public entities eligible for up to three million dollars annually, and an additional two million dollars available for projects located within designated Brownfield Development Areas. Matching grants for certain remediation outcomes are capped at two hundred fifty thousand dollars per project. These limits ensure equitable distribution of funds while supporting a range of project scales. For additional information or assistance, applicants may contact the program representative at the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. The program operates on a continuous basis without a defined award cycle, reflecting its role as an ongoing funding mechanism for environmental remediation and redevelopment initiatives within the state.