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Mid-Ohio Valley residents can probably think of properties across our region that are contaminated and in need of cleanup because of our industrial past. Among the tools for taking care of those messes are the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Brownfields and Land Revitalization Program grants. But that program requires capable local organizations to get the job done right.
Fortunately for us, Buckeye Hills Regional Council is just such an organization. In fact, it was recognized recently with a 2026 Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award from the National Association of Development Organizations for its 2022-2025 Brownfields Community-Wide Assessment Program.
“Receiving this recognition is a testament to the importance of investing in the future of our communities,” said Kate Dunn, senior planner at Buckeye Hills Regional Council. “Brownfield redevelopment takes vision, collaboration, and a commitment to turning challenges into opportunities. We’re proud to help communities across our region take the steps needed to transform underutilized properties into assets that support public health, economic development and long-term community growth.”
Those goals are as important now as ever, as our region works to turn around a sluggish economy that has left generations struggling -- but not without hope. Buckeye Hills Regional Council serves Athens, Hocking, Meigs, Monroe, Morgan, Noble, Perry, and Washington counties. That's nearly a quarter million people relying on the idea that someday (perhaps not in the too distant future) there will be new opportunities here for them and their families.
They are able to hold on to that hope because of work done by Buckeye Hills Regional Council and other local/regional economic development efforts. (Imagine what might be possible if the folks in Columbus turned their attention our way, too.)
Thank you, to those at Buckeye Hills whose hard work on our behalf earned this award. And congratulations!