Preserving History for Future Generations: FC Wins Brownfields Assessment Grant
- Terri Carter
- May 29
- 5 min read
Earlier this month, the Franklin County Mayor’s Office shared exciting news upon receiving word of a grant award. The funding comes from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Targeted Brownfields Assessment Program, which supports states, cities, and Tribes in assessing and addressing potential contamination in brownfield sites. By minimizing uncertainties and facilitating redevelopment, the program plays a vital role in transforming these properties into safe and productive spaces for the community.
Franklin County Mayor Chris Guess kicked off the conference with a warm welcome, expressing heartfelt appreciation for everyone in attendance. He extended a special thank you to his dedicated staff and County Grant Manager, Chelle Daniels, whose invaluable efforts in the grant process have played a key role in securing vital funding for the community.
“I’d also like to thank my staff.”, stated Guess. “They know how to make things happen. I’d especially like to thank Chelle Daniels. She actually wrote the grant for Franklin County, and I think we were one of two in the state of Tennessee to receive this grant, if that tells you a little bit about the kind of job she does.”
The mayor emphasized the importance of development and growth for the community, noting that this grant would enable progress while ensuring taxpayers are not burdened with unreasonable costs.
“That’s what programs like this enable us to do.”, said the mayor. “It makes the community better without adding a financial burden. And the goal is to maintain a livable lifestyle for the citizens of Franklin County. We look forward to working with our partners at the EPA to transform selected sites from idle and unusable to viable and productive sites that contribute to the economy of Franklin County.”
Franklin County is part of the EPA’s Region 4, which received a total of $23.4 million in funding. Within this region, two brownfields assessment grants were awarded—one providing $1.2 million to the Southeast Tennessee Development District and the other granting $1.2 million to Franklin County.
The Franklin County plan will facilitate the creation of six cleanup initiatives, five reuse plans, and a comprehensive area-wide plan, all complemented by active community engagement efforts. The assessment activities will specifically target the cities of Winchester, Cowan, and Huntland, ensuring a focused approach to revitalization and development.
The targeted sites include a former market, a fuel station, a historic hat factory, and the old farmers market pavilion. These investments will not only tackle environmental concerns but also pave the way for future redevelopment and revitalization, transforming these locations into valuable community assets.
Franklin County Grant Manager Chelle Daniels took the podium, offering insight into the significance of the grants and their impact on both the community and its residents. She emphasized that this funding is not just about revitalization—it’s about honoring the county’s past while shaping its future. With sites including a former market, a historic hat factory, and the old farmers market pavilion, Franklin County is committed to preserving the rich history woven into these landmarks. As the assessment and redevelopment stages begin, efforts will focus on maintaining the character and legacy of these spaces, ensuring that their stories remain at the heart of the transformation.
“It’s an incredible honor to stand here today and celebrate a milestone moment for Franklin County.”, stated Daniels. “We are thrilled to announce that our community has been awarded the EPA Brownfield Coalition Grant, an opportunity that will help us reclaim and revitalize sites that were once the backbone of our local energy and industry.”
Daniels highlighted the deep significance each site holds within the community, emphasizing their historical value and the memories they represent. She stressed that as redevelopment moves forward, preserving the essence and legacy of these locations remains a priority, ensuring their rich history continues to shape their future.
“These sites once kept our homes running, supported local businesses, and served as cherished gathering places for generations. Though their original purpose has changed, they still hold deep meaning to our community-each one telling a unique and valuable story about who we are and how we’ve grown. With this grant, Franklin County can breathe new life into these properties, turning yesterday’s brownfields into tomorrow’s opportunities.”
“The project will not only spark economic development and create new jobs, but it will also preserve the history and character that makes Franklin County so special.”
The grant manager shared the profound sense of gratitude and pride that comes with Franklin County being chosen for such a meaningful investment. Among countless deserving communities, Franklin County stood out—a testament to its dedication, vision, and commitment to revitalization.
Following Daniels’ remarks, Franklin County High School student Callie Alonzo took the podium, sharing her enthusiasm for the upcoming changes and the lasting opportunities they will create for both her generation and those to come. Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Commissioner David Salyers echoed this optimism, expressing appreciation for local government partnerships and extending gratitude to the county mayor and the EPA. He emphasized his support for the grant’s impact and looked forward to fostering strong relationships with all involved in the revitalization efforts.
State Representative Iris Rudder and Senator Janice Bowling were also in attendance for the announcement, and Senator Bowling expressed extreme excitement for the upcoming revitalization projects.
“My campaign slogan was ‘Drawing from our past. Planning for our future. Maximizing today.’”, stated the senator. “This is what it’s all about. And it is dear to my heart, and I appreciate the fact you all have done this. And I thank you, Franklin County, because you all are exemplary in so many ways. It’s an honor to serve you.”
Securing this brownfields grant represents a major milestone in Franklin County’s dedication to environmental responsibility and community renewal. With this funding, local leaders can take decisive action to evaluate and mitigate potential contamination, laying the foundation for safer, more sustainable development that benefits both residents and future generations. As the county continues to invest in its future, this grant stands as a testament to the dedication of officials and leaders working to turn challenges into opportunities. By transforming brownfield sites into productive spaces, Franklin County is ensuring a healthier, more vibrant community for generations to come.
