Brownfield Development

A key aspect of Catellus’ overall sustainable development program is the work it does at brownfield sites. Brownfield sites are urban industrial properties that typically suffer from soil or groundwater contamination. Environmental remediation is generally required before these sites can be redeveloped.

Work in this area requires extensive experience and expertise in environmental regulation, specialty insurance and government-sponsored incentive programs. Solid working relationships with regulatory agencies are also a key component of success. 

Brownfield expertise can be a major advantage in gaining access to property for new mixed-use projects, especially in land-constrained markets. Brownfield site redevelopment can also deliver real benefits to a community such as restoration of wetlands and wildlife habitats, new jobs, improved tax base and improved property values for the site and surrounding properties.

Catellus has successfully achieved approvals from the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) on Mission Bay, Alameda Landing, and Pacific Commons. Catellus has also had successful dealings with other regulatory agencies related to environmental cleanup including the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), Air Resources Board, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and many other state, regional and local agencies.