EAST PALESTINE, OHIO – December 6, 2024 – The Columbiana County Land Reutilization Corporation will receive $780,000 to remediate and redevelop the site of a former gas station and auto garage at 448 E. Taggart St. This project is not related to the February 3, 2023, derailment of a Norfolk Southern freight train carrying hazardous chemicals on the eastern end of the Village of East Palestine. The former gas station’s location was not included in the scope for remediation efforts as part of the accident clean-up.
Tad Herold of the Columbiana Land Bank noted, “The site was being evaluated by the EPA for clean-up consideration for several years and we are pleased to have secured the grant money for this project that will add to the overall health and safety of the entire Village of East Palestine.”
The Ohio Department of Development is awarding the funding through the Ohio Brownfield Remediation Program, which provides grants for the cleanup of brownfield sites, to assist in the remediation of hazardous substances or petroleum at an industrial, commercial, or institutional property. Remediation includes acquisition of a brownfield, demolition performed at a brownfield, and the installation or upgrade of the minimum amount of infrastructure necessary to make a brownfield site operational for economic development activity.
The project, which will include demolition, soil remediation and the removal of aging above-ground storage tanks, will create a development-ready commercial/industrial property. The funding is part of $86.1 million in state support to help clean up and redevelop 81 hazardous brownfield sites in 46 counties.
About the Columbiana County Land Bank
Founded in 2014, the Columbiana Land Bank was created as a tool to fight blight in the county and to prepare additional land for economic development activities. Learn more at lb.columbianacodev.org.
About the Village of East Palestine
Founded in 1875, the Village of East Palestine is a close-knit community known for its rich history, friendly atmosphere, and commitment to progress. With a population of just under 5,000 residents, the Village of East Palestine offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern conveniences, making it an ideal place to live, work, and visit. For more information, go to epohio.org.
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