Georgia Brownfield Association Events

2024

GBA Presents: 2024 Kick-Off Event

Featuring Updates from GBA’s Planning Retreat & Plans for 2024 + EPD Updates + Networking

Join us for our 2024 Kick-Off event and hear from our new GBA President Andrea Rimer-Brogdon as she shares exciting updates from our planning retreat and plans for 2024. We’ll also have updates from EPD – and plenty of time for networking!

Who:

  • Andrea Rimer-Brogdon – GBA President + Partner, Troutman Pepper

  • Shannon Ridley, EPD

  • Stephanie Horwitz, EPD

  • Adam Hanley, EPD

When: Wednesdsay, Jan. 10, 2024 5 pm – 7:30 pm

Where: Troutman Pepper, 600 Peachtree St NE # 3000, Atlanta, GA 30308

Registration: GBA 2024 members – FREE / Nonmembers – $20 / Gov’t Employees + Students – $10

***Need to join or renew your membership for 2024? Visit our GBA membership page to determine what level is best for you.***

 

REGISTER FOR IN PERSON ATTENDANCE

 

REGISTER FOR VIRTUAL ATTENDANCE


2023

GBA Presents:

PFAS and Brownfields – EPA Regulatory Update and PFAS Groundwater Case Study”

+ Happy Hour

Hear from EPA and industry leaders involved with the future of PFAS in Georgia, then join GBA for mixing-n-mingling at one of Atlanta’s finest restaurant/brew pubs, Hopstix for appetizers and drinks. Space is limited so be sure to register now!

Who:

  • Heather Friedman – GBA President + Partner, Morris, Manning & Martin

  • Aaryn Jones, EPA PFAS Coordinator for Region IV

  • Tim Goist  – WSP PFAS groundwater case study

  • Happy Hour at Hopstix Asian/Fusion- one of Atlanta’s best restaurants/brewpubs

 

When + Where:

Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023 – 4 pm to 8 pm

Registration: GBA members – FREE / Nonmembers – $20 / Gov’t Employees + Students – $10

 

Click here to join us in person

 

Click here to participate virtually

 

Elevate your visibility among the key PFAS industry contacts – sponsor this event:
Happy Hour Sponsorships: $1,000 / Event Sponsorships: $500

Thank you event host and sponsors:

 

Screenshot 2023-10-12 at 9.21.50 PM

 

 


 

GBA June 15, 2023 Interactive Event:

Evaluation of EPD VI Guidance Through Application of Practical Scenarios

With varied applications for EPD’s recently released Vapor Intrusion Guidance document, the opportunity to see how the Guidance may be applied in various scenarios will offer attendees insights into important nuances and variables in its application. This is designed to be an interactive session, so bring your experiences and questions and join us for some hands-on learning. Have questions about the VI Guidance? Submit your questions in advance and they will be incorporated into the discussion.  This is designed to be an interactive session, so bring your experiences and join us for some hands-on learning.

You can help us make the discussion even better by submitting questions in advance to Jennifer@HLStrategy.com.

Who:

  • Amy Potter – Program Manager, Risk Assessment Program at Georgia EPD

  • Shannon Ridley – Brownfield Coordinator, Georgia EPD

  • Leonard J. Diprima, P.G. – Executive Vice President,  United Consulting
  • Moderator: Jim Fineis – Owner & President, Total Vapor Solutions

When: Thursday, June 15, 2023 from 5 to 7:30 pm

Where:  Arnall, Golden Gregory: 171 17th St NW UNIT 2100, Atlanta, GA 30363

Registration: Free for 2023 GBA members /$20 nonmembers / $10 govt. & students

Event Sponsorships: $500

Thank you to our event host, Arnall Golden Gregory!

REGISTER NOW


2023 GBA Kick-Off Event 

Featuring Updates from GBA, EPD + Networking

Who:

  • Heather Friedman – GBA President + Partner, Morris, Manning & Martin

  • Amy Potter – Program Manager, Risk Assessment Program at Georgia EPD

  • Shannon Ridley – Brownfield Coordinator, Georgia EPD

What: Join GBA in at our 2023 Kick-Off Event featuring updates on GBA and EPD + extra time for networking

When: Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm

Where: Georgia Power, 241 Ralph McGill Blvd NE, Atlanta – The Kilowatt Room CLICK HERE FOR DIRECTIONS / PARKING INFO

Registration: Free for 2022 GBA members /$20 nonmembers / $10 govt. & students / www.GeorgiaBrownfield.org/Events

Thank you to our host and sponsors:

Georgia power

GreenRock MorrisManningMartin

REGISTER NOW FOR IN PERSON ATTENDANCE

REGISTER NOW FOR VIRTUAL ATTENDANCE 


 

2022 Events

 

Atlanta Mayor Dickens to Speak at Oct. 18 GBA Event

on Equitable Development

DickensWho:

  • Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens
  • Atlanta City Planning Department – Assistant Director Jessica Lavandier
  • EPA Brownfields Project Manager – David Hayes
  • Groundwork Atlanta Executive Director – Heather Hussey-Coker
What: In May 2022, the EPA announced Atlanta as the recipient of $3.9 million in RLF grant funding to support the cleanup and redevelopment of brownfield sites. Those funds will be awarded at the beginning of October, supporting the City’s plans to improve upon some of Atlanta’s most blighted areas. GBA is honored to present our Fall 2022 event featuring:
  • Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, who will share insights into the City’s plans on equitable development,
  • Atlanta City Planning Department Assistant Director Jessica Lavandier, who will provide information on the City’s Brownfield program – including how to participate in its Brownfields Assessment Grant and Revolving Loan Fund,
  • Groundwork Atlanta Executive Director Heather Hussey-Coker on the Chattahoochee Brick Company site
  • EPA Updates from EPA Brownfield Project Manager David Hayes, and
  • Networking with industry leaders.

When: October 18, 2022 from 5:45 to 7:30 pm

Where: IN PERSON IS SOLD OUT – Morris, Manning & Martin, Atlanta Financial Center, 3343 Peachtree Rd NE #1600, Atlanta, GA 30326 // JOIN US VIRTUALLY

Thank you to our host and sponsors:

MorrisManningMartin

logobasha4   United Consulting Logo 2022

 

 

Mayor & MMM folks copy 


 

GBA Presents: Installation of Horizontal Remediation Wells at Urban Environmental Sites

Who: Brian Shinall, Ellingson Companies

When: April 12, 2022 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm

Where: United Consulting, 625 Holcomb Bridge Road, Norcross, GA 30071 // Also available virtually via Zoom

What: This presentation will highlight the uses and considerations for horizontal/directional drilling methods at urban environmental sites, including a case studies of recent implementations.

Background: Horizontal/directional drilling (HDD) methods have been utilized in the environmental industry for the installation of soil and groundwater remediation systems since the late 1980’s. Refinements in drilling equipment, steering/locating technology and well installation methodology has made the use of this drilling method suitable for installing horizontal wells at small footprint sites in highly urbanized areas.There are two primary benefits achieved from the use of HDD drilling and well installation applications.

1) Most contaminant plumes tend to be long and “thin,” based on contaminant dispersion. The horizontal placement of the well allows the screen to maximize contact with the entire length of the plume. All remediation technologies including; soil vapor extraction, sub slab vapor mitigation, sparge/biosparge, ISCO/nutrient injection, and/or recirculating wells are enhanced by direct contact with the plume.
2) HDD allows wells to be installed under complicated surface obstructions including, occupied buildings, buried and above ground utilities, roadways, parks and other infrastructure common in urban areas, without disruption to ongoing site activities.
The presentation provides a basic introduction to the HDD methods and the key considerations needed when applying the technology to well installations. Additionally, several recent projects detailing the effectiveness of horizontal/directional remediation systems

 


 

GBA 2022 HYBRID Kick-Off Event

Meet GBA’s 2022 Officers + EPD Shares Vapor Intrusion Guidance + In-Person Networking

When: Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2022 from 5 to 7  pm

Where: Troutman Pepper*, 600 Peachtree Street, N.E., Suite 3000, Atlanta, GA 30308

What: Join us IN PERSON for an introduction to your new GBA officers, as well as a review of EPD’s new Vapor Intrusion Guidance document and NETWORKING! We also are offering a hybrid option for those who prefer to dial in remotely.

*Please note that the host facility requires all guests to show proof of COVID vaccination -or- a negative test result within the previous 72 hours. View visitor policy here.*

REGISTER NOW – 2022 MEMBERS, BRING A GUEST!

 

 


 

2021 Events

 

GBA Presents a Panel Discussion on Equitable Development Featuring EPA, Brunswick, College Park & Macon

When: Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2021 – 11:30 am–1 pm

Where: Via Zoom

What: GBA presents a panel discussion focusing on Equitable Development, and Nonprofit and Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) Roles in Brownfields and Land Revitalization.

***GBA is applying for 1.5 hours of CLE Credit from the State Bar of Georgia for this event and will offer Certificates of Participation for other industries by request.***

Who:

·    Moderator: Bill Denman, Chief, Redevelopment and Chemicals Branch Land, Chemicals and Redevelopment Division – EPA. View slide.

·    Panelists:

·    Cindy Nolan, Chief, Brownfields & Redevelopment Section, will expand upon important information touched on during EPA’s Brownfield Seminar presentation, including the new Equitable Development Brochure and the Revolving Loan Fund Strategy. View slide.

·    Tasha Hall Garrison, Community Development Administrator, City of College Park, will focus on the history and properties of the region, including the effects of redlining. She will share insights on the city’s brownfield funding and work for environmental justice to defy gentrification. View slides.

·    Travis Stegall, City of Brunswick Economic & Community Development Director, will share his experience championing small investor participation in Opportunity Zones and Brownfields Redevelopment. Travis played an active role in the August 2019 State and Federal Agency discussion of the US Highway 17 Rural Sustainability and Equitable Development Corridor at the Georgia Environmental Conference. View slides.

·    Ric Geyer, Principal, Triangle Arts Macon, Ric Geyer will share Macon’s success with Triangle Arts and other revitalization activities. View slides and video.

 

REGISTER NOW



POSTPONED

GBA is Going Face to Face: Join Us Wednesday, Aug. 25 

Grab your business cards and get ready to mingle: GBA is going face-to-face on Wednesday, Aug. 25! We’ll share a brief update from GBA, and then turn you all loose to reconnect with long-time friends and associates, meet new contacts, swap business cards and war stories – all while enjoying refreshments. More details to come – but be sure to register now!
When: Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2021 from 5 to 7 p.m.
Where: United Consulting, 625 Holcomb Bridge Rd, Norcross, GA 30071
Registration: $10 members / $20 nonmembers / $15 government & students
Take advantage of this opportunity for visibility – and help make our event a success – sign up to sponsor today!
Contact Jennifer Jezyk at Jennifer@HLStrategy.com for sponsorship details.

 


 

GBA Presents:

Environmental Justice, Equity and Leveraging Collaboration between the Atlanta University Center and Westside Communities to Advance Green Infrastructure

Screen Shot 2021-04-01 at 11.46.57 AM

When: April 27 @  11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Where: Via Zoom

Registration: Free for members / $10 nonmembers

 

OVERVIEW

Environmental Justice – what is it, really? Find out at the upcoming GBA April 27th Special Event: Leveraging Collaboration and Equity between the Atlanta University Center and Westside Communities to Advance Green Infrastructure

Dr Yomi Noibi will lead a discussion on the Development of the Atlanta  University Center Green Infrastructure Plan: why Environmental  Justice is its center-piece and why this Plan was needed. Student involvement is at the heart of Environmental Justice, and students embraced the movement for Green Infrastructure at AUC. Dr. Yomi taught students, created campus-wide learning experiences that included US EPA, Atlanta Watershed Management and many other community partners. Dr. Shafiei, Political Science Chair, encouraged student participation throughout the campus. Art Frazier, Spelman College Director of Facilities and Architect was a Green Infrastructure champion and supporter for student involvement. This is an exciting story of transformation and student empowerment to impact the future and the faculty who led them. Michael Halicki, Exec Director of Park Pride, an Atlanta nonprofit dedicated to supporting neighborhoods and parks, will share his own experience in working with the Atlanta University Center community and how the implementation of this Green Infrastructure plan has already begun a transformation of Atlanta’s Westside.

 

PRESENTERS

Fatemeh Shafiei, Chair, Political Science Spelman College

Fatemeh Shafiei, associate professor and chair of political science, has worked for many years to support environmental justice and environmental education.  In August, she was reappointed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator to continue serving as a member of National Justice Advisory Council (NEJAC) for a one-year term.  NEJAC is a Federal Advisory Committee that advises the U.S. EPA on Environmental Justice issues.  NEJAC has 26 members representing diverse stakeholders involved in environmental justice.  Dr. Shafiei serves as one of four members from academia. Also in August, Dr.  Shafiei organized and hosted a two-day faculty development institute, “Educating for Sustainability: Greening the Curriculum at Minority Serving Institutions,” with funding provided by UNCF/Mellon.

Dr. Yomi Noibi, Executive Director, Environmental Community Action
Dr. Yomi is a professional science and environmental justice educator implementing projects with both local and global impact. He has taught undergraduate and graduate courses in biological sciences, environmental health, science/environmental education and conducted seminars on contemporary issues in education and environment that center on the triple bottom line of sustainable economic development, environmental stewardship, and equity.

Art Frazier , Director of Facilities & Architect, Spelman College

Proven Architect and Facilities Director with a focus on leading teams in the delivery of technically complex projects to the satisfaction of the end users, Mr. Frazier has shared his expertise in team building, developing/executing work plans and creative problem solving, along with his ability to develop and implement strategies that achieve departmental goals.

Michael Halicki, Executive Director, Park Pride

Michael Halicki is the Executive Director of Park Pride, an Atlanta nonprofit dedicated to supporting neighborhoods and parks. He will share his own experience working to engage communities in their parks and how the implementation of a Parks and Green Infrastructure Plan developed by Park Pride with the community back in 2010 help to jumpstart efforts to address the chronic environmental challenges on Atlanta’s Westside.

REGISTER NOW


GBA Presents: Koppers Superfund Site-NPL Deletion and Remediation Implementation

Wednesday, Feb. 24 at 11:30 am

Join us for our first Zoom session of the year, where we will explore a case study on the 150+acre Koppers Superfund site located along the Ashley River in Charleston, South Carolina. Guests will learn about the development, regulatory and technical challenges that took place over twenty year period to make the property available for redevelopment.  These efforts led to EPA approval for deletion of the Koppers Superfund Site from the National Priority List (NPL) and associated remediation implementation.  Remedial work has included the recent completion of a large scale in situ stabilization of as well as remediation that is incorporated into ongoing site development work. The remediation is required component of the NPL deletion and in turn NPL deletion is necessary to achieve eligibility to participate in the South Carolina Brownfields / Voluntary Cleanup Program, including access to the liability protections therein in support of overall site redevelopment.

What: This presentation will discuss the impediments to redevelopment of a Superfund site and describe financing, acquisition, regulatory and technical approaches to overcome those impediments.

Presenters:

  • Gerald Pouncey, Chairman, Morris, Manning & Martin, LP
  • Craig Zeller, P.E., Superfund & Emergency Management Division, U.S. EPA Region 4
  • Phil Pauquette, P.E., Principal Engineer, Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions, Inc.

When: Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2021 from 11:30 am to 1 pm

Where: Via Zoom

Registration: Free for GBA 2021 members and their guests, $10 for nonmembers

Register Now


 GBA logo 2020

2020 Events

Zoom into GBA’s 10th Anniversary Holiday & Member Appreciation Event

Featuring Breakout Room Social Hour & Bring a Guest Free

Wednesday, Dec. 9

It’s our 10th anniversary holiday party! The holiday party has always been one of our most anticipated and attended events of the year. And, we’re excited to bring it to you in a virtual format to show our appreciation for your support, celebrate the high points of this year, provide useful information, and of course, enjoy networking!
When: Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2020 from 4:30 to 6:30 pm
Where: Via Zoom
Registration: Free for GBA 2020 and 2021 members and their guests, $10 for nonmembers

Register Now


GBA Presents:

Brownfields for Nonprofits: Leveraging State and Federal Programs to Make a Difference 

Thursday, Nov. 12 at 11:30 am

Please join us to learn how non-profit organizations can leverage Federal and State Brownfield Programs to make a difference. Our panelists will provide an overview of how EPA Brownfield Grants, together with local stakeholders and State programs and initiatives can help community-based organizations safely acquire property, execute use-based remedial strategies, and realize goals that – without established Brownfield programs – would have either been unachievable, or would have opened organizations up to environmental and financial risk.

Stacy Funderburke –  Conservation Fund

Heather Hussey-Coker – Groundwork Atlanta

Scott Laseter – KMCL

Jessica Lavandier –  Assistant Director, City of Atlanta Office of Zoning and Development

Camilla Warren – EPA

 


GBA Members Are Invited to a Zoom Meeting to Review EPD Guidance Document on Vapor Intrusion

Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 8:30 am 

Please submit questions/comments by  Sept. 2, 2020

The Georgia Brownfield Association’s Legislative Affairs Committee invites GBA members to participate in a discussion with members of EPD’s Vapor Intrusion Technical Advisory Committee about the EPD’s Guidance for Evaluating the Vapor Intrusion Exposure Pathway document on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2020 at 8:30 a.m.
In order to maximize the benefit of this meeting, the committee requests participants to submit questions and/or comments on the Guidance in advance. Questions/comments may be emailed by Wednesday, Sept. 2 to Jennifer@HLStrategy.com.
The draft Guidance and additional information can be found on EPD’s website under Land Protection Branch Public Announcements or under Land Protection Branch Technical Guidance.

Based on our member feedback, we will submit comments to this guidance by the September 14, 2020 deadline.

This document was drafted by a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) which included GBA members, GBA Board members, EPD representatives and external stakeholders with technical knowledge in the subject:
•         Bart Eklund, AECOM
•         Jim Fineis, Total Vapor Solutions
•         David Hayes, EPD Land Protection Branch
•         Ryan Jones, Brown and Caldwell
•         Leslie Miller, Wood
•         Amy Potter, EPD Land Protection Branch
•         Andrea Rimer, Troutman Pepper
•         Katie Ross, Wenck
•         Chris Saranko, Geosyntec Consultants
•         Keith Ziobron, Cardno

Register Now


GBA Hosts Zoom Meeting to Review EPD Guidance Document on Area Averaging Approach to Soil Compliance for Direct Contact Exposure Scenarios

GBA’s Legislative Affairs Committee invited members to a virtual discussion on July 30, 2020 at 8:30 am to discuss EPD’s recently published Area Averaging Guidance document. During the call, the Legislative Affairs Committee will walk GBA members through the documents, provide an overview of GBA’s participation in the process, and lead a conversation about member feedback.

The draft document and additional information can be found on the EPD website under Land Protection Branch Public Announcements or under Land Protection Branch Technical Guidance.

Based on our member feedback, comments to this guidance were submitted prior to the August 14, 2020 deadline.

Participating Members in this Meeting:

Len Diprima
Steve Ellingson
Holly Hill
Peyton Nunez
Chris Saranko

View the Presentation


 

Terracon Presents: A Case Study on the Transformation of West End, Chattanooga, TN + EPD Updates  

Join GBA on June 25, 2020 at noon for our latest informative webinar featuring a case study presented by our 2020 Platinum Sponsor Terracon, and updates from EPD.
Terracon will present a webinar focusing on its environmental investigation and remediation of the West End in Chattanooga, Tennessee to transform this former-industrial area into a vibrant multi-purpose community. This presentation will focus on the history of the West End site, the evolution of the site from industrial to multi-use and the regulatory challenges along the way.
EPD will provide updates on guidances underway, relevant information from the upcoming end of the 2020 legislative session, and insights into the impact of state budget cuts might affect the EPD programs.
We will provide questions to EPD in advance to address, where possible, during our webinar. Please email Jennifer Jezyk to submit questions in advance.


 

LinkedIn: Staying Connected in a Time of Disconnect

A Free Webinar Presented By GBA on Thursday,  April 9

GBA is committed to fulfilling its mission to educate its members, provide networking opportunities, and bring the industry together – even during times of disconnect such as this. Now, more than ever, resources such as LinkedIn can help maintain connectivity and business continuity.

During GBA’s free April 9 webinar, HL Strategy’s LinkedIn expert Rachel Simon will guide participants through topics including:

WHAT should your profile look like?

General best practices on LinkedIn profiles including photos, headline, summary, experience etc. The focus is on your profile as your digital “first impression.”

WHO is in your network?

Overview of why it’s important to understand who is in your current LinkedIn network. How to download your connections to see if your network is comprised of the right people and share recommendations on how to add connections.

HOW should you engage?

Recommendations on posting content, engaging with other people’s posts and how to use LinkedIn messaging. How to engage with other GBA members via GBA’s LinkedIn page.

Have questions about LinkedIn you’d like to be sure we address? Email your questions to Jennifer Jezyk.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Contact Jennifer Jezyk for information about how your company can sponsor this webinar!

Georgia Brownfield Association Hosts Sold-Out February 28 Workshop

Attendees Learned Important Updates on New Georgia Leaching Assessments, Area Averaging and Vapor Intrusion Guidance 

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Georgia Brownfield Association held our first event of 2020 at the offices of Barnes & Thornburg on Feb. 28, 2020. The sold-out workshop was sponsored by Maxis Engineering and Terracon, and provided attendees with exclusive insights into:

  • Recently finalized Georgia Leaching Assessment (GLA) Guidance;
  • Updates from EPD on Area Averaging Guidance;
  • Vapor Intrusion Guidance updates; and
  • Case studies specific to GLA Guidance

View select materials shared by our presenters:

Feb. 28 GBA Workshop

Feb. 28 GBA Workshop

Renew Your Membership for 2020 Now!

 

2019 Events

Join us at GBA’s annual holiday event! GBA officers will provide an update on our legislative efforts, 2020 events and more, with plenty of time for mingling. We look forward to toasting to GBA members’ 2019 successes and new opportunities in 2020. Special thanks to our gracious hosts at Troutman Sanders, and to our event sponsors Intertek PSI and United Consulting for their support!
When: Tuesday, December 3 from 5:30-7pm
Where: Troutman Sanders, 600 Peachtree St NE #3000, Atlanta, GA 30308
Screen Shot 2019-12-17 at 1.54.28 PM

Nearly 70 of the region’s business and environmental leaders convened Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2019 at Kemron for a riveting discussion about which brownfield redevelopments are poised to reshape the Westside, environmental obstacles that have been encountered, the use of state resources, and announcements about what’s on the horizon.

As Atlanta’s Westside continues to experience an important resurgence, with limited untouched land remaining, stakeholders increasingly are looking to brownfields for redevelopment. As this happens,  millions of dollars in private and public capital are being invested to transform historic neighborhood  and develop new commercial districts. These unique brownfield opportunities also come with unique environmental challenges – but they’re not necessarily dealbreakers. If approached thoughtfully, they don’t have to create undue liabilities and can instead present rare opportunities for redevelopment.

Attendees heard from a panel featuring some of the leaders most involved in reshaping the Westside, including:

Panelists included:

 

Brownfields on the Westside

Brownfields on the Westside

 


 

Renewable Energy Projects at Brownfield Sites

Continued climate change emphasis on renewable energy, incorporation of renewable energy into brownfield redevelopment projects can be beneficial. This program will present business, environmental and regulatory prospective to consider in evaluating brownfield redevelopment projects for incorporation of renewable energy. Answering:

  • How can Brownfield redevelopment projects incorporate renewable energy?  
  • For Brownfields Sites with limited development potential, might a renewable energy installation be a viable use?  
  • Are there any incentives for renewable energy at Brownfields?

Featured speakers include:

  • Tully Blalock, Senior Vice President & General Counsel, SolAmerica Energy 
  • Charlie Denton, Partner, Barnes & Thornburg LLP

When: May 8, 2019

WhereBarnes & Thornburg LLP3475 Piedmont Road N.E., Suite 1700, Atlanta, GA 30305

 


Georgia Brownfield Association’s Coastal Committee to Host “Brownfields for Bankers” Lunch Event on March 25

The Georgia Brownfield Association Coastal Committee is hosting a “Brownfields for Bankers” lunch presentation and discussion.

One of Georgia’s most powerful economic tools is the state’s brownfield law, providing protections and incentives to prospective purchasers of environmentally impacted properties. Since the inception of the program in 2003, more than 550 cleanups have been completed, returning properties with valuable infrastructure in important corridors to productive use. Lenders play a critical role in this significant economic development opportunity for Georgia’s communities.

This program will inform lenders and others on the opportunities of investing in brownfields, dispel myths on such redevelopments, and provide an opportunity for discussion on how the program works.

When:                                March 25, 2019 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where:                              Pirate’s House, 20 E Broad St, Savannah, GA 31401

Featured Speakers:

  • Shannon Ridley, Brownfield Coordinator, Georgia EPD
  • Justin Johnson, Senior Geologist, Terracon

 

2018 Events

Georgia Brownfield Association Columbus Committee to Host “Brownfields for Bankers” Lunch Event on Jan. 31

The Georgia Brownfield Association is partnering with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division and the River Valley Regional Commission for a “Brownfields for Bankers” lunch presentation and discussion.

One of Georgia’s most powerful economic tools is the state’s brownfield law, providing protections and incentives to prospective purchasers of environmentally impacted properties. Since the inception of the program in 2003, more than 460 cleanups have been completed, returning properties with valuable infrastructure in important corridors to productive use. Lenders play a critical role in this significant economic development opportunity for Georgia’s communities.

When: January 31, 2018 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Chattahoochee River Club, 1100 Bay Avenue, Columbus, GA 31901

Speakers include:

  • Shannon Ridley, Brownfield Coordinator Georgia EPD
  • Jim Livingston, Director of the River Valley Regional Commission

 

Coastal Committee Presents: Brownfields in Brunswick

The Georgia Brownfield Association Coastal Committee announces Brownfields in Brunswick Lunch Event on January 25, 2018 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Brunswick Development Authority.

Sponsored by the Brunswick and Glynn County Development Authority, Georgia Power, and Honeywell, the event will highlight important details of working with brownfields in Georgia, including opportunities for redevelopment including tax incentives, mitigating risks, and other key information to help organizations understand the nuances of, and opportunities with, brownfields.

Speakers:

  • Camilla Warren, EPA grant manager and site advocate
  • Beth Blalock, Counsel, Gilbert Harrell Sumerford and Martin
  • Shannon Ridley, Brownfield Coordinator for the EPD
  • Brian Kvam, Cardno

When: January 25, 2018 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Where: Brunswick Development Authority, 1505 Richmond St, 2nd Floor, Brunswick, GA 31520.

Registration:

Free to attend. The cost of registration has been generously covered by our event sponsors, Georgia Power, the Brunswick and Glynn County Development Authority, and Honeywell, but advance registration is requested.

2017 Events

Coastal Committee Presents: Investment and Relocation Trends with Georgia Power’s New GIS Tool; Brownfield Tax Incentive Programs

Start your morning with an hour of powerful content from the Georgia Brownfield Association Coastal Committee, beginning with an economic development update from Georgia Power on investment and relocation trends, alongside a presentation on tax credit opportunities available to facilitate brownfield redevelopment in the region.

Who: The Georgia Brownfield Association Coastal Committee Presents:

  • Ricardo Palacios, P.E., Senior Economic Development Engineer, Georgia Power will provide an update about investment and relocation trends, as well as share Georgia Power’s new GIS tool.
  • Kimberley Hale, Partner, Kazmarek Mowrey Cloud Laseter LLP (KMCL) will share insights into Brownfield Tax abatement incentives, including determining when the Georgia Brownfield Program is a good fit for prospective purchasers of contaminated property and how best to leverage it.

When: Monday, Sept. 25 at 8:30 a.m. Check-in 8:30 a.m. Program 8:45 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.

Where:           Savannah Economic Development Authority, 131 Hutchinson Island Road, Fourth Floor, Savannah, GA 31421

 

Economic Development Outlook on Commercial Real Estate Development and Redevelopment (March 1, 2017)

The Georgia Brownfield Association’s Coastal Committee presents its March 1, 2017 event highlighting updates to brownfield redevelopment under new city, state and federal leadership. Key speakers include:

  • Kevin Klinkenberg, Executive Director, Savannah Development and Renewal Authority
  • Nick Deffley, MPP, Sustainability Director, City of Savannah
  • Jesse Dillon, Business Development Project Manager, Savannah Economic Development Authority
  • Shannon Ridley, Brownfield Coordinator. Georgia Environmental Protection Division
  • Additional Speakers TBD
  • When: March 1, 2017 from 5-7pm
  • WhereSavannah Economic Development Authority131 Hutchinson Island Road, Savannah, GA 31421

Working group discussion about the Georgia Brownfield Program &
the VRP laws (March 15, 2017)

The Georgia Brownfield Association (GBA) submitted a draft whitepaper to GA EPD in 2016 requesting the GA EPD consider how the following interpretation of the Georgia Brownfield Program (GBP) and the Voluntary Remediation Program (VRP) laws could encourage even more redevelopment of brownfield properties across Georgia.

EPD encouraged GBA to review the HSRA regulations to develop a summary of potential edits/changes to the HSRA rules that would be helpful to the GBA.  As such, GBA wishes to engage GBA members to gain feedback on two questions:

  • What are the most important risk based tools from the VRP that are most helpful to participants in the GBP? 
  • What edits/changes to the current HSRA rules need to be made to help participants in the GBP?
  • When: Wednesday March 15, 2017 from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
  • WhereTroutman Sanders LLP, 600 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 5200, Atlanta, GA 30308-2216

2016 Events

Tax credit opportunities to facilitate brownfield development (December 14, 2016)

Please join us for a presentation about tax credit opportunities – including Brownfield, Historic, Job-Based, and New Market – that are available to facilitate brownfield re-development. Kimberley Hale with Kazmarek Mowrey Cloud Laseter LLP will lead the discussion.

  • When: Wednesday, December 14 from 5:30-7pm
  • Where: Arnall Golden Gregory LLP, 171 17th St NW, Suite 2100, Atlanta, GA 30363
  • Cost: $20 GBA member, $35 non-member

Coastal Committee Event: Redeveloping the Environmentally Impacted ‘Corner’ Property (November 2, 2016)

Join the Georgia Brownfield Association for its quarterly meeting and enjoy networking with industry leaders, along with a panel discussion, “Redeveloping the Environmentally Impacted ‘Corner’ Property.”

Speakers include:

  • Bill Bishop, Vice President, Real Estate & Development, The Parker Companies
  • Stewart Dixon, Environmental Department Manager, Terracon
  • Shannon D. Ridley, Brownfield Coordinator, EPD-Land Protection Branch, Response and Remediation Program, Brownfields Unit
  • John Spinrad, Partner, Arnall Golden Gregory LLP

Details:

  • When:  Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2016 from 5 to 7 p.m.; Drinks and heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served
  • Where: Savannah Economic Development Authority 131 Hutchinson Island Road, Fourth Floor Savannah, GA 31421
  • Cost: Cost $15 members / $25 nonmembers; Free admission when you renew your GBA membership or join GBA for 2017

Columbus Brownfields 101 (October 14, 2016)

Join us on for a lunch program in Columbus on October 14 to learn more about Georgia’s brownfield redevelopment regulatory program, available development incentives, and current redevelopment opportunities in our community.

The program will include:

  • Brownfield Redevelopment 101, including grants, tax exemptions, and other incentives to develop sites
  • Redevelopment in the Enterprise and Opportunity Zones in South Columbus
  • Redevelopment in the 2nd Avenue Corridor and the City Village project
  • The Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 initiative

When: October 14, 2016 from 11am to 1:30pm
Where: River Valley Regional Commission, 710 Front Avenue, Columbus, GA 31902
Cost: The lunch program is free, but registration is requested

Public Health and Brownfields Panel Discussion (July 19, 2016)

You’re invited to GBA’s panel discussion about brownfield redevelopment and public health – including the environmental, behavioral, mental, and community health benefits of reclamation. The event will include a focus on the revitalization of Proctor Creek in the City of Atlanta highlighting the health benefits of both environmental remediation and building new greenspace.

Panelists include:

  • Amy Kirby, PhD, Emory’s Rollins School of Public Health Center for Global Safe Water
  • Dr. Leslie Rubin, MD, Institute for the Study of Disadvantage and Disability
  • Stephanie Stuckey-Benfield, City of Atlanta
  • Debra Edelson, Emerald Corridor Foundation
  • When: Tuesday, July 19, 2016, 5:30-7:00pm
  • Where: Emory University, Claudia Nance Rollins Building, 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30322
  • Cost: $20 for 2016 GBA members, $35 for non-members

GBA Board Meeting (March 17, 2016)

All members are invited to attend the next board meeting to learn more about GBA’s 2016 priorities, current initiatives, and committee programming.
  • When: Thursday, March 17 at 8:15am
  • Where: Amec Foster Wheeler, 2677 Buford Highway, Atlanta, GA 30324
  • Remote participation: If you cannot attend in person, you can dial in at 404-801-3225, Conf ID: 886-129-088
  • Cost: Free

2nd Annual GBA Brownfield Seminar (April 20, 2016)

GBA is hosting its second annual Brownfield Seminar at Georgia Power on Wednesday, April 20, and we anticipate a sold-out event in 2016, as we were at capacity for the 2015 event. Click here for more information.

Email Kelly Andrews to be included in e-communications about upcoming events.

Discussion about the City of Atlanta’s EPA Brownfields Assessment and RLF programs (February 25, 2016)

Jessica Lavandier, an Assistant Director with the City of Atlanta’s Office of Planning in the Department of Planning and Community Development, provided an update of the city’s EPA Brownfields Assessment and RLF programs.

She discussed the city’s efforts to identify sites, provide funding for Phase I and II ESAs, and make loans, and welcome questions from the group following her presentation. Click here to view her presentation.

Click here to download presentations from past events.

GBA year-end event with EPD (December 16, 2015)

You’re invited to the Georgia Brownfield Association’s year-end reception, during which GBA officers will share more about the organization’s 2016 leadership and goals. Beth Blalock, Assistant Branch Chief, Land Branch, and Shannon Ridley, Acting Brownfield Coordinator, at Environmental Protection Division, will join us to provide a statewide recap of 2015 and updates about EPD’s priorities for the coming year.
Please join us as we celebrate a successful year of furthering the organization’s mission and toast to continued growth in 2016!

Discussion with Ryan Gravel about the new generation of cities (October 19, 2015)

You’re invited to attend an informal talk with Ryan Gravel, the visionary of the Atlanta BeltLine and the author of a forthcoming book, WHERE WE WANT TO LIVE: Reclaiming Infrastructure for a New Generation of Cities. He is also founder and owner of Sixpitch, a creative firm that helps clients leverage physical infrastructure to shape cultural or economic outcomes and related place-based strategies for improving our way of life.
Ryan’s discussion will focus on the ability of ordinary citizens to help catalyze the creation of a new generation of cities. Building on his own sixteen-year history with the BeltLine and ongoing study of brownfield reclamation, as well as referencing revolutionary examples from other cities, Ryan will share with attendees how innovative, community-driven ideas are reclaiming obsolete infrastructure as renewed conduits of urban life. In addition, he’ll discuss why Brownfield redevelopment is important, why it’s happening innately in this cultural movement toward cities, and why that matters.

Inaugural GBA Coastal Committee Gathering (October 27, 2015)

All GBA members are invited to join the newly installed Coastal Committee in Savannah to hear Beth Black, Assistant Branch Chief, Land Branch, Environmental Protection Division, share a state-level Brownfield update. At the event, Kevin Klinkenberg, Executive Director of the Savannah Development and Renewal Authority, and Nick Deffley, Environmental Affairs & Sustainability Director for the City of Savannah, will also provide an overview of brownfield redevelopment opportunities in the City of Savannah. Georgia Brownfield Association leadership will discuss the organization’s outreach on the coast.

Environmental Justice Panel Discussion (August 4, 2015)

You’re invited to attend a panel discussion about environmental justice with panelists Doug Henderson of Troutman Sanders, Camilla Warren and McKara Rumley of the EPA, and Roger Register of Cardno. GBA Executive Director Howard Lalli will facilitate the discussion about the benefits of redevelopment brownfields in diverse communities, as well as the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of individuals in these communities, who have often lived, worked, and played closest to sources of pollution.

GBA Brownfield Seminar (April 21, 2015)

Join the Georgia Brownfield Association for its inaugural Brownfield Seminar for leading development, legal, engineering, risk management, economic development, and other professionals throughout Georgia with a shared interest in cleaning and redeveloping contaminated properties and revitalizing surrounding areas around the state.

Sandy Springs Redevelopment Panel Discussion (March 11, 2015)

We hope that you can join us on March 11 for a panel discussion about redevelopment around Sandy Springs. Panelists include Steve Massell, principal of Lee & Associates; Andrea Hall, Sandy Spring’s director of economic development; and Russ Griebel, vice president of United Consulting.

EPD Reception (December 4, 2014)

Join us at the Georgia Brownfield Association’s year-end reception, during which we’ll honor Madeleine Kellam for her tireless work on behalf of brownfield redevelopment and welcome Beth Blalock as EPD’s new Brownfield Coordinator. Please join as we celebrate a successful year of furthering the organization’s mission and toast to continued growth 2015!

Georgia Brownfield Association General Membership Meeting (November 13, 2014)

Join us at the Georgia Brownfield Association’s first-ever full membership meeting for a discussion about how we plan to build on the organization’s recent successes – which include advocacy work in the passage of legislation and numerous educational and networking events – to further ensure the best possible regulatory, legal, political and economic environment in which to encourage brownfield redevelopment. Provide your input on the organization’s priorities for the coming year and learn more about how you can become more involved as a committee member.

“Waters of the United States” Panel Discussion (October 21, 2014)

Marcus Rubenstein of Woodard & Curran, Lewis Jones of King & Spalding, and Greg Jones of AGL will lead a panel discussion about the proposed definition of ‘Waters of the United States’ under the Clean Water Act.

9th Annual Georgia Environmental Conference (August 20-22, 2014)

The Georgia Brownfield Association is a Premium Sponsor of the 9th Annual Georgia Environmental Conference and is hosting the conference’s Breakfast Keynote Panel, “Driving Economic Growth & Stewarding Environmental Resources“, on Thursday, August 21, 2014. The conference is the state’s largest and most comprehensive educational opportunity and will be attended by an estimated 600+ State, Local, and Federal Government Officials, Business and Industry Leaders, Attorneys, Consultants, Engineers, Developers, Land Owners, Architects, Agribusiness Leaders, Energy Experts, Water Planning Districts, Universities, Public Health Officials, Solid Waste and Recycling Experts, and many others with a strong interest in Georgia’s and the Southeast region’s Environmental Programs.
Over the three-day period, this Conference will host an elite group of environmental professionals seeking to exchange knowledge and share ideas around environmental concerns in Georgia and the Southeast region. The curriculum, designed and developed by the 56 member Steering Committee, offers over 50 unique courses, allowing Attendees to design their own personalized curriculum by selecting nine educational courses while receiving approved Continuing Education credits. With the combined efforts of the state’s leading environmental organizations, the Georgia Environmental Conference is a valued educational experience focused on Sustaining the Future for the People of Georgia(TM).

Ponce City Market Tour & Networking Event (July 28, 2014)

Enjoy a private tour of the Ponce City Market, along with time to network with your GBA peers. Due to the nature of this event, attendance is limited to 50 guests.

Georgia House Bill 957 Networking Event (May 8, 2014)

Following GBA’s and EPD’s successful stewardship and advocacy of Georgia House Bill 957, you are invited to network with your redevelopment peers and learn more about GBA’s legislative efforts. Representatives from GBA and EPD, which worked together to draft much needed changes to the Georgia Hazard Site Reuse and Redevelopment Act, will share information about the about revisions to the law and provide updates about the next steps as we await the Governor’s signature.
We’ll gather at the Wrecking Bar Brewpub, which is located in the Victor H. Kriegshaber House, a historically significant house that was built just before 1900. Kriegshaber, the original owner who lived there until 1924, was a leader in the cultural and economic development of Atlanta during the first third of the century, serving in executive positions for numerous business, civic, philanthropic and cultural organizations.

Vapor Intrusion Discussion (March 4, 2014)

Join the Georgia Brownfield Association as they host a discussion about how vapor intrusion is currently being considered at sites on the Hazardous Site Inventory and a review of the recent changes to the ASTM International’s Phase I Environmental Site Assessment and vapor encroachment standards.
David Hayes, coordinator of GA EPD’s Vapor Intrusion Workgroup, will provide information pertaining to how vapor intrusion is currently being considered at sites on the Hazardous Site Inventory, as well as in other environmental programs in Georgia. David will also provide EPD’s current understanding of EPA’s historic and more recent guidance on vapor intrusion. In addition, Shanna Alexander (EPD’s Risk Assessment Group Leader), will offer insights into data collection, data quality, and risk assessment methodologies for sites where vapor intrusion is a potentially significant exposure pathway.
Gordon Cobb, Regional Coordinator of ENVIRON’s Due Diligence practice, will present a review of key changes to the ASTM International’s Phase I Environmental Site Assessment standard (E1527-13), approved by the USEPA in late 2013. These changes include revised and new definitions, emphasis on files reviews, user responsibilities, and vapor intrusion clarification. In addition, with the new increased emphasis on vapor intrusion, the presentation will also highlight related components of the ASTM standard guidance for vapor encroachment screening (E2600-10) and its potential impact/influence on conducting Phase I site assessments.