Narrative Information Sheet – Golden Triangle Planning and Development District,
Mississippi
1. Applicant Identification: The Golden Triangle Planning and Development District
(GTPDD) as a Regional Council, with an address of 106 Miley Drive, Starkville,
Mississippi 39759, requests consideration of the following EPA Brownfield Assessment
Grant proposal.
2. Funding Requested:
a. Assessment Grant Type: Community-wide
b. Federal Funds Requested:
i. $500,000
ii. The GTPDD is applying for a Community-wide Grant; therefore, this
section is not applicable.
3. Location: Golden Triangle Region, Mississippi: Choctaw, Clay, Lowndes, Noxubee,
Oktibbeha, Webster, Winston Counties of Mississippi
4. Target Area and Priority Site/Property Information:
- The target areas for this grant include 1) approximately 1.4 miles of the Doctor Martin
Luther King Junior (MLK) Drive Corridor in Starkville, Oktibbeha County. The corridor
includes the area between Long Street and Old West Point Road and 2) the Retail District
of Columbus, Lowndes County along Highway 45, north of U.S. Highway 82.
- Census Tracts for MLK Drive target area: 9503, 9504, and 9505
- Census Tract for Retail District target area: 9.01 and 9.02
- Priority Site Addresses:
o Leigh Mall, 1404 Old Aberdeen Rd, Columbus, MS 39705
o Express Stop Gas Station, 101 MS-182, Starkville, MS 39759
o Conner Block: 105 to 203 Jefferson Street, 201-203 N Lafayette Street, 102 and
104 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive East, and 119-312 Dr. Douglas L. Conner Drive, Starkville,
MS 39759
5. Contacts:
a. Project Director: Ms. Phylis Benson, the Project Analyst for the GTPDD will
serve as the Project Director for this proposal. Ms. Benson’s contact information is
as follows: Phone: (662) 320-2007, Email: [email protected], mailing address:
P.O. Box 828, Starkville, Mississippi 39760
b. Chief Executive/Highest Ranking Executive Official: Mr. Rupert Johnson, the
Executive Director for the GTPDD serves as the highest-ranking executive official.
Mr. Johnson’s contact information is as follows: Phone: (662) 324-7860 Email:
39760
6. Population: The total population of the seven County GTPDD Region is estimated at
176,061 (American Community Survey (ACS)). Cities where priority sites are located have
the estimated following populations: Starkville (Oktibbeha County): 25,122, Columbus
(Lowndes County): 24,272 (ACS).
7. Other Factors Checklist:
Other Factors
Page #
Community population is 10,000 or less.
The applicant is, or will assist, a federally recognized Indian tribe or United States
territory.
The priority brownfield site(s) is impacted by mine-scarred land.
The priority site(s) is adjacent to a body of water (i.e., the border of the priority site(s)
is contiguous or partially contiguous to the body of water, or would be contiguous or
partially contiguous with a body of water but for a street, road, or other public
thoroughfare separating them).
2
The priority site(s) is in a federally designated flood plain.
2
The reuse of the priority site(s) will facilitate renewable energy from wind, solar, or
geothermal energy; or any energy efficiency improvement projects.
3
The reuse of the priority site(s) will incorporate energy efficiency measures.
3
30% or more of the overall project budget will be spent on eligible reuse planning
activities for priority brownfield site(s) within the target area.
The target area(s) is located within a community in which a coal-fired power
plant has recently closed (2011 or later) or is closing
8. Letter from the State or Tribal Environmental Authority: A letter of support from the
Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality is attached.
9. Releasing Copies of Applications: N/A
The Golden Triangle Planning and Development District (GTPDD) was formed in June of 1971
to improve and enlarge economic development and civic improvement in the seven-county region.
This grant will allow us to focus assessment funds to better the lives for many of our low-income,
minority populations who are disproportionally impacted by brownfields. The GTPDD relies on
grant and loan funding to serve our communities, of which, these funds will allow for the building
of our brownfield programs. We appreciate your consideration of our application and are hopeful
for the opportunity to continue reinvesting in the brownfields across our region.
STATE OF MISSISSIPPI
TATE REEVES
GOVERNOR
MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
CHRIS WELLS, INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
November 12, 2021
Mr. Rupert L. “Rudy” Johnson
Golden Triangle Planning & Development District
106 Miley Drive
Starkville, MS 39759
RE: EPA Brownfield 104(k) Assessment Grant Application Acknowledgement
Golden Triangle Planning & Development District (GTPDD)
Dear Mr. Johnson:
The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) hereby
acknowledges GTPDD’s plans to assist communities in the Golden Triangle
regional area of Mississippi by conducting brownfield activities and plans to apply
for federal grant funds through the United States Environmental Protection
Agency’s (EPA) Brownfields initiative. Since many brownfields are abandoned,
underutilized, and contaminated, MDEQ is expressly interested in seeing entities
like the GTPDD take the initiative to assess, remediate, and return these sites to
productive uses. These efforts are consistent with our mission to safeguard the
health, safety, and welfare of present and future generations of Mississippians.
MDEQ looks forward to our continued role in the GTPDD’s Brownfield Initiative
and are available to assist you at any time. Should you have any questions or
comments concerning this matter, please contact me at (601) 961-5093.
Sincerely,
Thomas L. Wallace, P.E.
Branch Chief – GARD I
Mississippi Brownfield Coordinator
FY2022 EPA Community-Wide Assessment Grant Application
Golden Triangle Planning and Development District, Mississippi
Page 1 of 10
1. PROJECT AREA DESCRIPTION AND PLANS FOR REVITALIZATION
a. Target Area and Brownfields
i. Background and Description of Target Area
The Golden Triangle Planning and Development District (GTPDD) was formed in June 1971 to
improve and enlarge economic development and civic improvement in the seven counties of Choctaw, Clay,
Lowndes, Noxubee, Oktibbeha, Webster, and Winston and their 20 municipalities with a total population of
176,592. Geographically connected in northeast Mississippi, these counties became known as the Golden
Triangle because it is adorned with a commercial waterway, one of the state’s busiest airports, major rail
lines, and national highways. However, the Golden Triangle Region consists primarily of small towns each
with their own historic downtown with commercial corridors extending out to complimentary rural
countryside.
The Region has historically supported agricultural and manufacturing industries, ranging from cotton
and lumber harvesting to textile mills and bottling companies. Despite leaps and bounds made in the State’s
economic wellbeing since the Great Recession, Within the last decade, companies have globalized, adapting
to the modern era where the internet and 24-hour logistics rule the economy. The traditional flow of goods
from American factories to warehouses and storefronts via bulk transportation has greatly diminished. To
continue being competitive, companies have downsized and outsourced labor overseas, irreversibly affecting
small town economies which operate under limited funds, resources, and job opportunities. In a national
trend, department stores and indoor retail malls have all but disappeared as online shopping has become the
new normal. These trends have had a significant impact locally leaving the region with numerous vacant,
blighted, and contaminated brownfield properties with little resources to catalyze redevelopment. In fact,
from 1993 to 2003, Columbus lost 33 percent of its manufacturing jobs. The closures continued in 2004 when
American Trouser closed, losing 300 jobs, and in 2007, a Sara Lee plant closed leaving another 1,600 people
out of work. Since the COVID-19 pandemic started, additional plant closures have been announced,
including 170 jobs in Starkville and over 60 in Columbus. The dire economic situation is long standing, with
5 out of the 7 counties experiencing persistent poverty as more than 20% of the population has lived in
poverty over the past 30 years (ACS).
Through their 2017 EPA Brownfield Assessment Grant, GTPDD has executed a successful brownfield
program identifying over 150 potential and confirmed brownfields and assessed 14 sites. However, additional
assessments and continued federal funding to support the GTPDD’s brownfield program is essential. Within
the Golden Triangle, two priority target areas have been identified as the focus for this community-wide
assessment grant. Both target areas are examples of antiquated commercial corridors which have negatively
impacted their communities. Starkville’s Doctor Martin Luther King Junior Drive (MLK) Corridor,
known locally as “The Strip”, is located at the western point of the Triangle in Oktibbeha County, a few
blocks north of Downtown Starkville (population estimate 25,543) and is a historical and cultural center for
the city and county. MLK Drive once served as a major thoroughfare in its mid-century heyday, currently
despite its name intended to connect, it acts more like a divider due to long term disinvestment. Modern
highways have diverted traffic away from The Strip, resulting in the closure and long-term vacancy of
numerous auto-repair shops, gas stations, car sales lots, and additional commercial businesses. Today, twelve
brownfields line the 1.4-mile-long corridor target area, which has a retail building vacancy rate of
approximately 25% (EPA Assessment funded Corridor Plan). To help attract investment, the City of
Starkville secured a $12.66 MM BUILD Act Grant which will renovate sidewalks, public right of ways,
crosswalks, and implement green underground utilities along the Corridor. Work began in 2021. The BUILD
Act award was a direct result of a FY2013 EPA Assessment Grant received by the City of Starkville, which
allocated funding to create the MLK Corridor Plan. These improvements will benefit the 11,220 residents
living within a mile radius of the Corridor (EPA Environmental Justice SCREEN (EJSCREEN)). Here, 50%
of the population earns less than $25,000 annually and 42% of residents are minorities (EJSCREEN). Within
the target Area, 39% of minorities live in poverty (ACS). Furthermore, access to fresh foods is extremely
limited; the USDA classifies the entirety of Starkville as a food desert.
The second target area, the Retail District, is located at the eastern point of the Golden Triangle Region,
within an opportunity zone in the City of Columbus, in Lowndes County (population 23,850). When traveling
south along Highway 45, through the City’s northern gateway, motorists are met with a cluster of failing,
abandoned, and underutilized commercial properties. Located less than a mile north of the City’s Downtown,
the Retail District consists of a 1.8-mile portion of Highway 45. Fifteen brownfields have been identified by
a preliminary inventory. Within a mile radius of the Retail District, nearly 5,200 residents call the area home
(EJSCREEN). Of this population, 52% qualify as low income and 58% are minorities (EJ SCREEN). Within
the target area, nearly 60% of minorities live in poverty (ACS). Addressing brownfield sites within each of
these target areas will assist in revitalizing aging commercial and retail corridors, improve upon economic
and living opportunities for disproportionately impacted low-income, minority populations.
ii. Description of the Priority Brownfield Site(s)
FY2022 EPA Community-Wide Assessment Grant Application
Golden Triangle Planning and Development District, Mississippi
Page 2 of 10
The twelve brownfield sites identified in the MLK Corridor consist of auto-oriented businesses which
include former gas stations, used car sale lots, and mechanic garages. The two priority sites within the MLK
Corridor are focused near the intersection with Dr. Douglas L Conner Drive. Named for an important African
American physician and civil rights leader in Oktibbeha County, Dr. Conner practiced medicine and marched
for equal rights on this very street. Dr. Conner Drive leads south into the downtown and is highlighted by
Unity Park that honors civil rights pioneers in Oktibbeha County and Mississippi, including Starkville’s own
Dr. Conner. The former Express Gas Stop Station (MLK Target Area) is a 1,200 square foot vacant
convenience store located on a quarter acre. The store has been vacant and boarded for at least 5 years. With
peeling paint and a rusting canopy, underground storage tanks (USTs) remain in place, which, along with
associated product piping are likely to cause subsurface soil and groundwater contamination. Petroleum USTs
are associated with contaminants such as Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), Volatile Organic Chemicals
(VOCs), and heavy metals, which can cause reproductive health complications, birth defects, low body
weight, and lung, skin, and stomach cancer. Within just a few blocks walk from the former convenience store
is an elementary school and within just 400 feet are residential properties. Children commonly walk to school
from their nearby homes adjacent to the Corridor. Within the target area, 39% of the minority population and
43.5% of children under age 5 experience poverty compared to just 29.3% of the total target area population
(ACS), illuminating such health risks disproportionately burden low-income, minority, and youth
populations, hindering walkability efforts and quality of life. This property is a priority because it is located
in a high pedestrian traffic area, close to sensitive populations, within an opportunity zone and has a high
potential for redevelopment.
Located across the road from the Express Gas Station, at the southeastern corner of MLK and Dr. Conner
Drive, is the second priority site, Conner Block (MLK Target Area). The 2.25-acre block is comprised of
ten parcels and 14 underutilized and vacant buildings, totaling approximately 40,000 Square Feet (SF). Lean-
to sheds, canopies, garages, and abandoned cars litter the property. Previous building uses include an auto
garage, beauty shop, bail bonds, boot store, funeral home, used car sale lot, and agricultural store. The largest
buildings are two identical quonset huts located along the western portion of the block. The buildings are
condemned and owned by the City of Starkville. Vacant for approximately 25 years, the buildings’ unknown
environmental hazards have hindered the site’s redevelopment. On the northeastern corner, an auto garage
and used car sale lot sit side by side. Potential contaminants include PAHs from the waste oil, VOCs, and
heavy metals. Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM) and Lead Based Paint (LBP) may also be present in
several of the structures. Conner Block is a priority due to its location at this important cultural and historical
intersection and because the MLK Corridor has undergone extensive reuse planning. Together, these
adjoining Starkville sites could transform the Corridor, increasing the overall safety and economic stability
of the neighborhood.
The fifteen brownfield sites identified in the Columbus Retail District consist of retail stores, gas stations,
and car sale lots. Leigh Mall (Retail District Target Area): Located on the northwest edge of the City of
Columbus is a 30-acre, 300,000 SF shopping mall. Built in the mid-seventies, the Mall contained 30 retail
stores at its height, which included big box retail anchors such as JCPenney and Sears retail and auto service
center. Formerly employing approximately 260 people, the Mall now operates at a 50% vacancy and over
100 people have lost their jobs as result of the mall’s financial struggles, with 8 stores closing in the past three
years. Historical interior waste streams associated with the former service garage operations would have
consisted of general hazardous substances and/or petroleum products. The historical waste management
practices are unknown and may be a source of contamination. Moore Creek is approximately 400 feet away
from the auto service center, part of which is within the flood zone. Additionally, to reuse the property an
asbestos containing materials survey, estimated to cost $50,000, is needed to better understand the scope of
abatement that must take place to reduce the risk of lung cancer derived from potential friable asbestos
exposure. The property was auctioned in December 2018 and sold nearly a year later to its current owner, a
retail development entity. Further investment in and redevelopment of the property is hindered by the
unknowns associated with its environmental concerns. This site is a priority for GTPDD due to its proximity
to nearby residential, its potential to support additional jobs in the area, create increased tax revenues, and
spur development on surrounding properties that have struggled to survive or have become vacant as a result
of the loss of retail foot traffic.
b. Revitalization of the Target Area
i. Redevelopment Strategy and Alignment with Revitalization Plans
The target areas and priority sites were chosen based on both regional and target area specific planning
efforts. The 2018-2021 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) is a regional planning and
implementation process designed to foster a more stable and diversified economy, improve lives, and
coordinate economic development efforts. Goals from the CEDS include 1) expanding retail sales in order
to maintain millage rates and generate increased income from sales tax, 2) improving and upgrading highway
corridors, and 3) facilitating the continued growth and quality of life in the Golden Triangle Region.
Additionally, extensive visioning for Starkville’s MLK Corridor target area follows the planning completed
FY2022 EPA Community-Wide Assessment Grant Application
Golden Triangle Planning and Development District, Mississippi
Page 3 of 10
under Starkville’s EPA Brownfield Assessment Grant. The MLK Redevelopment Corridor Plan strives to
provide connectivity between Downtown, the Corridor, and the Mississippi State University Campus. Per
the Plan - “Façade improvements and access management strategies will be employed to provide for a more
cohesive Corridor. This provides an opportunity to begin to brand the Corridor as a funky and vibrant mixed-
use area that can exist as a complement to Downtown Starkville.” The Express Stop Gas Station and Conner
Block are both addressed within this Plan. An adaptive reuse strategy developed for the Express Gas Station
calls for the existing building shell to remain for reuse as a corner store market, highlighting fresh foods. This
reuse will meet the need for a convenient grocery store location identified within the Corridor Plan and
achieving CEDS goals 1, 2, and 3, as the redevelopment plan will improve the walkability of the Corridor,
racial disparities, and overall quality of life in Starkville.
The Corridor Plan continues, addressing the historical importance of Doctor Conner’s marches,
connecting the need for redeveloping Conner Block as a catalyst to improve the lives of residents. The Plan
proposes a mix of new construction and adaptive reuse of existing buildings to maximize infill and better
serve the community. Based on market findings, it’s proposed that the property could support 50,000 to
70,000 SF of mixed-use commercial businesses. Specifically, the quonset huts would be demolished to
eliminate the safety hazard. In its place, a 32,000 SF mixed used commercial and residential building would
be constructed along the northwestern portion of the Block. The Plan also discusses redeveloping “the
existing auto-oriented business [on the northeast] into a local destination restaurant, playfully named the
Rooster in honor of the legendary neighborhood rooster that formerly roamed the Corridor.” The Plan
includes an illustration of the 4,200 SF restaurant, featuring a wrap-around bar and patio seating complete
with native landscaping to boost curb appeal and assist with storm water management. The southern portion
of the property will be developed with approximately 15,000 SF of new white boxed commercial space for
new and existing business infill. These developments will anchor the Block and the remaining central and
eastern portions of the Block will be reserved for 0.25 acres of centralized greenspace and 0.7 acres of parking
lot (provides parking for approximately 105 cars), respectively. As a retail center, the development will
achieve CEDS goals 1, 2, and 3, facilitating new retail sales, creating a space that residents and visitors will
want to spend time in, and improving the quality of life for residents through job creation.
The Retail District is specifically addressed within the Columbus’ Highway 45 Corridor Improvement
District Project Planning. The document acknowledges plans to improve infrastructure within the District by
implementing “streetlights, signage, landscaping, public art, sidewalks, crosswalks or trails, and bike friendly
amenities”. Columbus’ Comprehensive Plan further outlines strategies for improvements, listing goals which
include (1) encouraging a system of small pocket parks, public plazas, and sidewalk gathering places, (2)
enhancing walkability, creating a more connected City, (3) facilitating sustainable development businesses
investments and improving shopping opportunities along Highway 45, and (4) upgrading gateways such as
Highway 45 to boost the community’s image. Hull Property Group, the developer and current owner of Leigh
Mall intends to selectively demolish portions of the Mall following assessment to create an outdoor,
pedestrian-oriented mixed-use development. Successful businesses will remain within the redevelopment
and new store fronts will be constructed in manner that creates a walkable destination. Approximately
210,000 SF of the building will remain. Energy efficient considerations will be taken during the planning and
design of the project including improved mechanicals, energy efficient windows, and LED lighting.
Approximately half an acre of greenspace will be incorporated throughout the development which will be
connected by one mile of walking trails. Furthermore, Hull Property Group will partner with Columbus Arts
Council to create collaborative murals on exterior walls. Picnic tables, benches, and public restrooms will be
provided for convenience. Outdoor stages and event throughout the Mall will allow for live music
opportunities and regular opportunities for farmer’s markets that highlight fresh produce, local bakeries, and
many at-home type of businesses. The redevelopment of Leigh Mall will achieve all three of the GTPDD’s
CEDS goals by creating a retail destination, improving conditions along Highway 45, and growing the local
economy. By connecting the Mall to the adjacent neighborhood via a greenway trail, the community will
have greater access to a shopping and exercising destination. Collectively, the components of this
development will help fulfill each of the outlined Columbus’ Comprehensive Plan goals.
ii. Outcomes and Benefits of Reuse Strategy
Building Reuse
Outcomes and Benefits
Align with Redevelopment
Strategy
MLK Target Area – Express Stop Gas Station – Market Adaptive Reuse
YES; existing 1,200 SF
building reused
5 jobs*; eliminating food desert; improve walkability and reduce
contaminants exposures for sensitive populations; private investment:
~850,000
CEDS goals: 1, 2, 3; MLK
Corridor Plan
MLK Target Area – Conner Block – Mixed-use New Construction and Adaptive Reuse
YES; existing 4,200 SF
building reused
~40 jobs*; ¼ acre of greenspace; and reduce contaminants exposures for
sensitive populations;31,000 SF of retail; 4,200 SF of restaurant; 16,000
SF of residential; private investment: ~$2.5 MM
CEDS goals: 1, 2, 3; MLK
Corridor Plan
FY2022 EPA Community-Wide Assessment Grant Application
Golden Triangle Planning and Development District, Mississippi
Page 4 of 10
Columbus Retail District Target Area – Leigh Mall – Retail/Commercial Adaptive Reuse
YES; adaptive reuse of
existing retail building
(210,000 SF)
~54 new jobs, retention of approximately 230 jobs*; ½ acre of
greenspace; 1-mile walking trail; improved connectivity between Mall
and adjacent neighborhood; private investment estimated $125/SF
CEDS goals: 1, 2, 3; HWY
45 Corridor Imp. Project;
Columbus Comp. Plan
*https://www.eia.gov/consumption/commercial/data/2012/bc/cfm/b2.php
As discussed in Section 1.a.i, 5 of the 7 counties in the Golden Triangle region are considered
disadvantaged communities as they experience persistent poverty, including Oktibbeha County where the
MLK Target Area in Starkville is located. In addition, Oktibbeha and Lowndes County (Retail Target Area)
have been designated by HUD as bearing a high housing cost burden with nearly 40% of households spending
more than 30% of their income on housing. Further, nearly 25% of households in these areas bear a severe
housing burden where over 50% of income is spent. Further, all priority sites are located within and will result
in investment and economic activity in an opportunity zone, furthering the long-term success of the proposed
projects. This includes all of the benefits outline within the above table, as well as additional catalyzed
investment throughout the target areas and as a result of assessments on secondary inventory sites within each
target area. As secondary inventory sites are identified and reused, they too will benefit a disadvantaged
community, as all counties in the GTPDD are designated as medically underserved by the Health Resources
& Services Administration.
c. Strategy for Leveraging Resources
i. Resources Needed for Site Reuse
A readily available inventory of incentives and grants that GTPDD will be eligible to apply on behalf of
or in partnership with another municipal entity and/or developer are listed below.
Source & Purpose/Role (Assessment/Remediation/Reuse)
Reuse: The MLK Corridor Plan was leveraged as a part of the City of Starkville’s FY2013 Brownfield Assessment Grant and cost
a total of $110,000. This planning exercise has proven to be a crucial piece to future redevelopment efforts.
Reuse: Starkville has secured $12.66 million from the Better Utilization of Investments Leading to Development (BUILD) Act to
redevelop the MLK Corridor. Funding will implement many suggestions made in the MLK Corridor Plan, which will include
burying utilities underground and creating a pedestrian-friendly Corridor by improving sidewalks, street lighting, and crosswalks.
The grant period will begin in 2021 and last five years.
Reuse: GTPDD offers four revolving loan fund (RLF) programs to supplement other commercial financing sources for development
projects. Funding ranges from $2,000 to $250,000 with fixed interest rate that varies from 2.25% to 5% for up to 15 years. Projects
must create and/or retain jobs within the Region.
Reuse: Jobs Tax Credits are credits that can be applied to state income tax to reduce an employer’s income tax liability. A company
can earn up to 10% off their payroll state income tax. This can be an excellent tool for promoting new business in the Region.
Reuse: Growth and Prosperity Program (GAP) would allow for all new businesses with 10 employees or more, and existing
businesses that expand by at least 10 jobs, a full exemption on state income and franchise taxes, as well as a majority exemption on
sales and ad valorem property taxes. Clay, Lowndes, Noxubee, and Oktibbeha Counties and the City of West Point currently take
advantage of this program to attract and grow businesses.
Remediation and Reuse: The Mississippi Economic Redevelopment Act (MERA) allows all sales, income, and franchise taxes
collected from businesses located in a designated redevelopment project area to be deposited into a special fund that would be used
to reimburse developers for approved cleanup costs. Reimbursement to developers would be made semi-annually for a period of
up to 15 years, with a maximum distribution to the developer of two and a half times the allowable remediation cost. The City of
Starkville has already approved the use of this incentive on two projects in their city resulting in $1.5 million in leveraged incentive
funding.
Reuse: The Arts Project Grant is funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, which is committed to supporting visual arts
activity that demonstrates exceptional aesthetic investigation and meaningful community engagement. A Cost Share grant would be
leveraged by the nonprofit Columbus Arts Council/the City of Columbus to engage the community in painting murals along exterior
walls within the Leigh Mall development. Grants range from $10,000 to $100,000 and can be utilized for all stages of the project,
from its planning through implementation.
ii. Use of Existing Infrastructure
The GTPDD will utilize current municipal and building infrastructure wherever possible, including
reusing buildings at all three priority sites, in order to prioritize funding and sustainability. All sites have water,
sewer, and electrical infrastructure in place. Significant upgrades to both utility and walkability infrastructure
is expected as part of Starkville’s BUILD grant, which will catalyze future investment along the MLK
Corridor target area.
2. COMMUNITY NEED AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
a. Community Need
i. The Community’s Need for Funding
The declining manufacturing and retail industries has resulted in a loss of major employers in the GTPDD
Region, and these closures have resulted in high unemployment rates, high poverty rates and reduction in tax
revenue. Unemployment rates for target areas are well above the state and national levels with the highest
rates reaching nearly 13% (2018 ACS). Business closures coupled with high poverty rates have led to
FY2022 EPA Community-Wide Assessment Grant Application
Golden Triangle Planning and Development District, Mississippi
Page 5 of 10
disinvestment in property, resulting in the creation of brownfields, blight, and depressed property values.
Expenditures toward environmental assessments of brownfield sites are not feasible in a time of tightening
budgets and limited resources for the small GTPDD communities. Specifically, the City of Columbus was
forced to reduce staff in 2017, of which they have not yet been able to fully replace. Furthermore, Columbus’
year-end financial review also documented that property taxes were $2.4 million lower than what was
estimated by the Auditor at the end of their third quarter; exemplifying the impact that brownfields have on
the City’s budget. The City of Starkville currently operates at one of the lowest millage rates in the entire
state of Mississippi as a way to encourage economic development and spending. While it’s a tool to
encourage economic growth, it limits capacity within their budget to allocated funds to programs outside of
basic, required services. The GTPDD itself is funded by awarded grants and membership dues from the local
counties and municipalities. However, membership dues are aimed towards the Area Agency on Aging
program providing services to assist older persons in leading independent, meaningful lives. Therefore, using
funds that are not specifically allocated to assess brownfield properties without private investment or grant
dollars is not feasible. If the environmental assessments were completed for the inventoried brownfield sites,
it would provide information on environmental conditions and serve as an incentive for future developers.
Redevelopment of the priority sites would not only add jobs for the target areas but would provide new
property, personal, and sales tax revenue for the communities to invest in future economic development. This
grant, as seed money for redevelopment has an even larger impact when considering its ability to catalyze
additional future redevelopment, beginning and continuing a trend for reinvestment.
ii. Threats to Sensitive Populations
(1) Health or Welfare of Sensitive Populations
Elderly, low-income, and minority individuals have been identified as sensitive populations living
within the target areas, as illustrated in the table above, with nearly 40% of the target populations in both
target areas under 18 or over 65 years. Minority populations exceed 40%, and in the Retail Target Area, are
nearly 60%. In addition, ACS data shows that the vast number of minorities also struggle economically. Each
county in the GTPDD region experiences minority poverty rates ranging between 33.5% to a staggering
66.7%, far above the national rate of 20.7%. Redeveloping brownfields will create retail and recreational
spaces which not only aide in current business retention, but also will attract commerce throughout the
Region. These additional employment opportunities will provide much needed jobs and income for these
low-income minority residents, and income tax that can be reinvested into the community to support health
and welfare initiatives.
Furthermore, healthy lifestyle and food options are severely limited within the target areas, with both
Starkville and Columbus designated as low food access zones, as the majority of residents are more than 20
miles from a grocery store (United States Department of Agriculture). Food insecurity is twice as severe
for the Region when compared to Top U.S. Performers (County Health Rankings (CHR)) and 69% of
students in the local district are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch. Reuse and reinvestment of the Express
Stop Gas Station into a local market will work to improve access to fresh foods for residents in the MLK
Target area and within the greater Starkville area. Likewise, the addition of retail and commercial space at
the Leigh Mall can assist in providing healthy food options in a high traffic area that is characterized by
convenience foods and drive-thru’s. The addition of greenspace at Leigh Mall and the Connor Block assists
in providing safe areas for recreation, in an area where only 44% of region residents have access to exercise
opportunities (CHR).
(2) Greater Than Normal Incidence of Disease and Adverse Health Conditions
In 2019, Mississippi was deemed the least-healthy state by America’s Health Rankings (United Health
Foundation) which is supported by statistics published by March of Dimes. Intergenerational health
conditions begin in-utero and include preterm births, low birth weight, and infant mortality. Mississippi has
a preterm birth rate of 14.2%, equivalent to a letter grade “F”. The region experiences an average preterm
birth rate of 13.2%, with some counties seeing as high as 14.5% (Clay County). Additionally, the preterm
birth rate among black women in Mississippi is 44% higher than the rate among all other women
(March of Dimes). Similarly, the regional infant mortality rate is 11.7 infants per 1,000 live births, which is
more than twice that of the national rate (5.6) and higher than the state rate (9.1) (March of Dimes). Likely
contaminants at the priority sites, such as VOCs and petroleum compounds, have been linked to
complications in reproductive health and fetal development (Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease
Registry), which may be contributing to these statistics. This grant will seek to reduce the risks of these high
incidence rates through proper assessment, identification, and remediation of these contaminants at
Source: ACS and EJSCREEN
MLK Target Area
Retail Target Area
Mississippi
National
Youth (Under 18)
17%
19%
24.1%
22.8%
Elderly (65+)
10%
17%
15.0%
15.2%
Minority Population
42%
58%
41.4%
27.3%
Earns Less Than $25,000/household
50%
41%
29.2%
19.2%
Median Household Income
$24,804
$44,342
$45,081
$62,843
FY2022 EPA Community-Wide Assessment Grant Application
Golden Triangle Planning and Development District, Mississippi
Page 6 of 10
Brownfield sites. For example, the Express Stop Gas Station and Conner Block priority sites both include
VOCs and petroleum compounds as contaminants of concern. These properties are within 200 feet to
residences and just 600 feet along a primary walking route to the elementary school. With remediation of
these suspected contaminants, exposure risks for the nearby target populations and children walking to school
will be reduced, making a positive impact to reduce the impacts of these contaminants on infant and
intergenerational health. Reduction of these contaminants also allows for safe occupancy of these properties
upon successful reuse.
Furthermore, the GTPDD region’s average incidence of lung and bronchus cancers are elevated when
compared to the national rate, by a difference of 10 points (CDC). Five of the seven counties in the region
experience incidence rate that exceed 70 per 100,000 people, compared with the US rate of 58.3. In Lowndes
County (retail target area), the incidence rate of lung and bronchus cancer comes in at 72.9 people per
100,000. Residents who are living, working, and shopping in close proximity to brownfield sites may be
hindered by their contaminants of concern, such as VOCs and friable asbestos, both of which are known to
be contributing factors to lung cancers (CDC). The hazards identified at the brownfield cleanup site are a
threat to human health through ingestion of contaminants, and/or exposure to airborne particulates. As stores
have closed in the Leigh Mall, evidence of the cycle of disinvestment and lack of maintenance is beginning
to be seen throughout the mall. Older building materials, many of which are suspect for containing asbestos,
are in poor condition and represent a potential hazard for the workers and shoppers to this primary retail area.
Further, the Conner Block’s age of construction represents similar concerns for asbestos containing materials
that will need to be abated in order to carry out a successful reuse plan. Protection of the current employees,
future construction workers, and safe occupancy by our residents and target populations are a priority. The
successful identification and remediation of contaminants at any brownfield property will contribute to
mitigating causes of cancers, and premature death, leading to long-term public health improvements.
(3) Promoting Environmental Justice
Based on the demographics of the target communities for this grant, disproportionate effects from the
brownfields are widespread. Sensitive populations near the priority brownfield sites and within the target
areas generally include disproportionate minority and low-income populations, and within the retail target
area elderly populations are also higher than the state and national average. These demographics, combined
with various environmental factors have resulted in sensitive populations that are disproportionately impacted
by the economic and environmental factors caused by brownfields. EJSCREEN data shows that for both
target areas, the populations are in at least the 67
th
percentile for each EJ Index compared to the state, EPA
region, and national populations. Susceptible populations living in the retail target area are in the 98
th
percentile (state) and 96
th
percentile (EPA region and national) for proximity to a Superfund site, with the
Kerr-McGee Chemical Corp. located within the target area. Similarly, both target areas exceed 95
th
percentiles for the EJ index related to Wastewater Discharge Indicators and Hazardous Waste Proximity.
By addressing brownfields within these target areas, exposure to contamination for disproportionately
impacted populations can be reduced. This process of redevelopment will also create spinoff investment, job
creation and local opportunities for respective residents, and thus begin the cycle of reinvestment that is
greatly needed throughout the target areas. Specifically, the MLK Corridor has seen a steep decline in
investment following construction of the highway systems that were developed to spur regional economic
growth. Ultimately, restoring a part of the City that is dedicated to Dr. Martin Luther King Junior and Dr.
Douglas L. Conner will work towards upholding their legacy, through improving the lives of those that have
long been disproportionately impacted by brownfields.
b. Community Engagement
i. and ii. Project Involvement and Roles
A table with names and contact information for partners providing their commitment to the brownfield
program is provided below. GTPDD will continually build upon this list to ensure inclusion of all
stakeholders.
Organization
Role
Hull Property Group
James Hull, Founder and
Managing Principal
(706) 863-2222
As the Leigh Mall developer, Hull Property Group has granted GTPDD site access and has committed
to being actively involved in updating the community regarding the Mall’s redevelopment progress.
The developer will also be included in all public meetings to provide input on upcoming decisions for
cleanup activities, schedule, and future reuse.
Golden Triangle Development
LINK (LINK)
Joe Max Higgins, Jr., Chief
Executive Officer
(662) 386-8369
jhiggins@gtrlink.org
The non-profit LINK serves as a full-service, economic and community development mechanism,
working with both public and private sectors to attract new businesses. LINK pledges to provide
volunteer time for economic development planning, utilize their resources to advertise to potential
developers/investors of the availability of the EPA grant and sites that have been assessed to increase
likelihood of job creation, and advertise community input opportunities related to the grant. LINK will
also aide in site selection by identifying those sites that have great opportunity for near-term
redevelopment.
FY2022 EPA Community-Wide Assessment Grant Application
Golden Triangle Planning and Development District, Mississippi
Page 7 of 10
Oktibbeha County National
Assoc. for the Advancement of
Colored People (NAACP)
Yulanda Haddix
(662) 403-4555
naacpoktibbeha@gmail.com
The Oktibbeha County Branch of the NAACP was founded by Dr. Douglas Conner to promote unity
in the community and civil service. With a strong historical tie to Conner Block, as a project partner
NAACP will provide input on upcoming decisions for cleanup activities, schedule, and future reuse
as well as inform the community of all projects and input opportunities related to the grant, to ensure
the impacted populations are supported and involved.
The Greater Starkville
Development Partnership
Mike Tagert, CEO
(662) 323-3322
mtagert@starkville.org
The Partnership encompasses the local Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Chamber of Commerce,
and the Economic Development Authority for Oktibbeha County. The Partnership will provide
community engagement assistance through advertising of public meetings and progress updates via
their various outlets, acting as a connection and site selector for potential companies who are looking
for retail space along the MLK Corridor.
Columbus Arts Council
Jan Miller, Director
(662) 328-2787
jan.columbusarts@gmail.com
Located in Downtown Columbus, the Arts Council supports and promotes creativity and cultural
preservation by engaging all forms of art. The Arts Council is dedicated to creating a sense of
community and has committed to coordinating local artists to paint murals throughout Leigh Mall.
The EPA, Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ), County health departments, and
representatives from the seven County governments and 20 municipalities are also established partners and/or
will be involved throughout the grant cycle, each contributing in their own capacity. GTPDD regularly
attends City Alderman and county Board of Supervisor meetings to report on GTPDD activities in their
respective jurisdictions. GTPDD will continue to attend these meetings to receive feedback on grant activities
and input towards site selection and property reuse.
iii. Incorporating Community Input
As part of an award, a project kick-off meeting will be held. This meeting will include a public forum to
discuss the grant, what the funds mean to the Region, and how the community can remain involved. This will
ensure an educated public and will allow for additional community involvement. Communication regarding
grant updates and opportunities will be conducted in a variety of ways, including quarterly public meetings
to regularly obtain community input through the life of the grant. These meetings will be held at GTPDD’s
office in Starkville, where elected officials from our seven-county region and 20 municipalities, stakeholders,
and residents are already accustomed to gathering. The centrally located office will allow community
members, stakeholders, and municipal government entities from every County to participate. Additionally,
GTPDD regularly attends public monthly County/Municipality Board Meetings and has utilized these
meetings to ensure that every governmental entity and their constituents are able to provide feedback and
ideas towards use of the assessment funds and assist in outreach for their individual municipalities’
neighborhoods. Meetings will be held at each County’s town/city to ensure a high level of attendance and
involvement. GTPDD saw great success during the FY2017 Assessment Grant by attending these meetings.
By engaging the local municipalities during the FY2017 grant cycle, four additional sites were identified as
priorities and included for assessment.
If COVID-19 makes meeting in person difficult and/or potentially dangerous, hybrid meetings will be
held, which is the GTPDD’s current format. A limited number of people will be invited to the meeting in
person while the remaining population may attend the gathering virtually through Zoom, with which GTPDD
has experience using. Meetings will be recorded for future viewing and a phone number and email address
will be provided for those that are unable to login to the Zoom platform.
These meetings will provide a method for the public to identify additional brownfield sites, reprioritize
known brownfield sites based on established criteria, and voice potential concerns. Commentary will be
collected in a variety of methods, including comment cards which can be dropped off at GTPDD’s office,
digitally through Zoom, or via email at any time. Once gathered, input will be publicly posted for review by
all stakeholders to allow for a back and forth engagement process. GTPDD will then incorporate this input
prior to making decisions regarding site assessment and future reuse activities. Public meetings will also be
utilized to present potential redevelopment opportunities to interested developers by showcasing available
brownfield sites and providing developers technical assistance in obtaining additional financial incentives for
planned redevelopment.
In order to reach residents that may not have the ability to attend public and/or virtual meetings,
communication regarding grant updates and input methods will also include press releases with the local
newspapers (online and in print), announcements on local news stations, flier distribution via local businesses
and community organizations, and City, County and project partner websites. Social media, including the
following Facebook pages, will also be utilized: GTPDD, Greater Starkville Development Partnership,
Starkville Area Arts Council, Lowndes County, Mississippi, and West Point Life, reaching over 10,000
followers. All input received will be utilized by the GTPDD as sites are selected for assessment and future
planning activities take place.
3. TASK DESCRIPTIONS, COST ESTIMATES, AND MEASURING PROGRESS
a. Description of Tasks and Outputs
FY2022 EPA Community-Wide Assessment Grant Application
Golden Triangle Planning and Development District, Mississippi
Page 8 of 10
Project Implementation (i)
Schedule (ii)
Task Lead (iii)
Outputs (iv)
Task 1: Cooperative Agreement Oversight
• General grant management
• Contractor procurement and oversight
• Ensuring reporting requirements are
met
• Budget and invoice reconciliation
Quarters
1-12
GTPDD;
supported by
env. consultant
1 Work Plan, 1 Community Involvement Plan, 12
Quarterly Reports, 1 Close-Out Report, ACRES, EPA
Form 5700-52A for Minority and Women Business
Entity Utilization and Federal Financial Reports SF-425
Additional Notes: Cooperative Agreement Oversight will include but is not limited to these activities. These activities will be
conducted for both the priority sites and sites within the secondary inventory. Milestones include contractor procurement, Work
Plan, and Community Involvement Plan completed in Q1, with other tasks continuing throughout the grant cycle.
Task 2: Inventory and Community Outreach
• Community outreach and education
• Selection of additional priority sites and
inventory
Quarters 1-
12
GTPDD;
supported by
env. consultant
Updated brownfield inventory, EPA Regional Kick Off
Meeting, National Brownfield Conference, Up to 12
public meetings
Additional Notes: An initial inventory is already established; however, the secondary inventory will continue to grow. If access
issues arise or if funding remains, additional sites may be included. This activity will take place for both the priority sites and
secondary inventory sites, primarily within the first quarter and then as needed throughout the grant. Community outreach will be
ongoing throughout the grant and after.
Task 3: Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs)
• Selection of additional sites
• Phase I ESAs
• Phase II ESAs
• Generic Quality Assurance Project
Plans (GQAPP)
• Site Specific Quality Assurance Project
Plans (SSQAPPs)
Quarters 1-
10
GTPDD;
supported by
env. consultant
1 GQAPP
ACRES Data
Priority Sites: 3 Phase I ESAs,
3 Phase II ESAs, 2 Hazardous Material Surveys
(Conner Block & Leigh Mall),
3 SSQAPPs
Secondary Sites: 18 Phase I ESAs, 11 Phase II ESAs,
11 SSQAPPs
Additional Notes: Costs for these activities include consulting and reporting expenses, printing, and other eligible assessment-
related costs. Site assessments will adhere to the All-Appropriate Inquiry guidelines, applicable ASTM International Standards and
environmental liability will be evaluated as it pertains to the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability
Act (CERCLA). The GQAPP will be completed by the environmental consultant in Q1, and Generic and Site Specific QAPPs will
be reviewed by MDEQ and the EPA. Site Assessments of the priority sites will include milestones in Q1 through Q4, with secondary
sites identified and assessed throughout the grant cycle.
Task 4: Cleanup Planning and Planning Activities
• Creation of a cleanup plan and
implementation strategies for
developing and utilizing resources
• Analysis of Brownfield Cleanup
Alternatives (ABCAs)
Quarters 5-
10
GTPDD; env.
consultant;
contracted
planning firm
Priority Sites: 3 ABCAs
Secondary Sites: 2 ABCAs
Additional Notes: The total estimated budget for this task includes travel to attend meetings with stakeholders related to the actual
cleanup or proposed development plans.
b. Cost Estimates
A list is provided below, which outlines how costs were derived for each task. Allocation of grant funds
Task 1: Cooperative
Agreement
Oversight
Task 2: Inventory
and Community
Outreach
Task 3:
Environmental Site
Assessments
Task 4: Cleanup
Planning and
Planning Activities
TOTAL
Personnel 7,500$ 7,500$ 7,500$ 7,500$ 30,000$
Fringe Benefits -$
Travel 6,000$ 150$ 6,150$
Equipment -$
Supplies 100$ 125$ 125$ 350$
Contractual 10,000$ 10,000$ 423,500$ 20,000$ 463,500$
17,600$ 23,625$ 431,000$ 27,775$ 500,000$
17,600$ 23,625$ 431,000$ 27,775$ 500,000$
Total Budget (Direct + Indirect)
Budget Categories
Project Tasks
Direct Costs
Total Direct Costs
Indirect Costs
FY2022 EPA Community-Wide Assessment Grant Application
Golden Triangle Planning and Development District, Mississippi
Page 9 of 10
is included within the following table. All costs were determined appropriate through prior EPA
Assessment grant experience.
Task 1: Cooperative Agreement Oversight
• Personnel: 150 hours at an average rate of $50/hour = $7,500 for programmatic costs such as financial
and performance reporting.
• Supplies: Office supplies will include copies, maps, and handouts. Estimated cost: $100
• Contractual: 100 hours at an average rate of $100/hour = $10,000 for assistance in programmatic
reporting as needed by a consultant.
Task 2: Inventory and Community Outreach
• Personnel: 150 hours at an average rate of $50/hour = $7,500 for time to attend community input
meetings throughout the grant’s life cycle.
• Travel: Two staff members traveling for three (National and Regional) conferences averaging three
days/nights each; $250/round trip flight ($1,500 total); $200/hotel room per night ($3,600 total), and
$50/day per diem per person ($900 total) = ($6,000 grand total)
• Supplies: Office supplies will include copies, maps, and handouts for public meetings. Estimated cost:
$125
• Contractual: 100 hours at an average rate of $100/hour = $10,000 to assist in both inventory
development and community outreach, some of which will occur concurrently.
Task 3: Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs)
• Personnel: 150 hours at an average rate of $50/hour = $7,500 for programmatic costs such as financial
and performance reporting for each site assessment that occurs
• Contractual
• 21 Phase I ESAs: average estimated cost of $3,500/ESA = $73,500
• 14 Phase II ESAs: average estimated cost of $20,000/ESA = $280,000
• 2 Hazardous Materials Surveys:
o Conner Block: estimated cost = $20,000
o Leigh Mall: estimated cost = $50,000
Task 4: Site Specific Cleanup Planning
• Personnel: 150 hours at an average rate of $50/hour = $7,500 for programmatic expenses associated
with cleanup planning, review of reports and meetings.
• Travel: Mileage reimbursement for the project manager; estimating approximately 52 miles per ABCA,
at the current 2021 rate: $0.56/mile x 52 miles x 3 ABCAs = $150 (rounded up)
• Supplies: Office supplies will include copies, maps, and handouts. Estimated cost: $125
• Contractual: 5 ABCAs at an average estimated cost of $4,000 each ($20,000 total)
c. Measuring Environmental Results
Per the requirements of the EPA Assessment Grant, we are familiar with the submission of quarterly
reports to the EPA Project Officer. These reports will cover work progress and current status, as well as any
difficulties that were encountered, a record of financial expenditures, data results and anticipated further
action. We will complete Project Profile forms for each assessment site noting specific accomplishments,
contaminants found, which materials were impacted, if cleanup activities are required and the progress of
said activities, and other resources that have been leveraged to complete the redevelopment of the site. At the
end of the three-year grant period, a similar final report will be produced. The reports and the Project Profile
forms will be a tool for both the EPA and the GTPDD to track and measure the grant’s progress in achieving
the outputs and outcomes successfully and on time. These monitoring efforts will keep us on-track, and our
list of secondary inventory sites ensures flexibility to remain on schedule. As required, these projects will be
submitted through the EPA’s ACRES reporting system. The ACRES database will also be utilized to track
job creation and acres of land assessed as part of this grant, as well as the total number of assessments
completed and the type of assessment, the amount of funds expended per project, the total project cost,
leveraged resources, and anticipated jobs created.
4. PROGRAMMATIC CAPABILITY AND PAST PERFORMANCE
a. Programmatic Capability
i. through iii. Organizational Capacity, Organizational Structure, and Key Staff
GTPDD is celebrating its 50
th
anniversary of serving as an economic development partner for the
municipalities and county governments within the region. GTPDD has done this by attaining grants and loans
for projects to improve and expand services that local governments can offer. The Planning Department’s
Economic & Community Development Division is specifically charged with assisting in grant and loan
funding through State and Federal opportunities. The Division is responsible for administering the grant
programs and carrying out the programmatic and financial requirements of each grant. Ms. Phylis Benson,
GTPDD’s Director of Planning and Development Project, will be in charge of project management and
administration responsibilities for this grant. Ms. Benson has thirty years of experience in the economic
development field. She has spent over twenty of those years with GTPDD and therefore has a strong
FY2021 EPA Assessment Grant Application – Golden Triangle Planning and Development District, Mississippi
Page 10 of 10
connection and understanding of the region’s residents, needs, and assets. Ms. Benson manages coordinating
federal and state programs for the seven-county Region, including the GTPDD’s prior assessment grant. This
experience will allow GTPDD to guarantee that all stakeholders are involved in the grant while ensuring
correct and timely reporting and compliance. Ms. Benson will manage community engagement organization,
grant and financial reporting and oversee tasks completed by the environmental consultant. Mr. George
Crawford, the GTPDD District Planner will assist in the community engagement, cleanup planning and
leveraging aspects of the grant. Mr. Crawford has been with the GTPDD since 1978. His experience includes
procurement and management of HUD Community Development Block Grants, extensive work with
projects through the Appalachian Regional Commission and preparation of a Comprehensive Economic
Development Strategy (EDA) for the seven-county area. Mr. Crawford has a Bachelor of Business
Administration and Master of Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Mississippi. He also has
a strong understanding of the functional needs of the region and recognizes the potential of the assessment
grant. This management structure has been used on past projects completed by GTPDD and has proven
successful. GTPDD’s expertise and experience along with their partnerships and the contracted
environmental consultant will ensure the correct and timely reporting, compliance, expenditure of funds, and
grant completion within the 3-year window.
iii. Acquiring Additional Resources
GTPDD will procure an environmental consultant through the federal and internal purchasing and selection
policies. For the FY2017 Assessment Grant, the environmental consultant was selected through a Request
for Qualifications process that was published for response by qualified firms. Firms were allotted guidelines
with a deadline for submissions, all submissions were available as public record and followed both local and
federal guidelines for procurement. GTPDD plans to procure the environmental consultant in a similar
manner and engage the chosen consultant through a new Master Service Agreement for the grant period. A
chosen environmental consultant will be experienced in brownfield programs including the following
services: assisting with Community Brownfield Inventories and Outreach, Phase I and Phase II ESAs,
ABCAs, and working with state regulators regarding solid waste and brownfield assessment redevelopment
planning and remediation. Additionally, the consultant will prepare the Generic QAPP within the first 60
days of the grant so that proposed assessments and activities are not delayed.
b. Past Performance and Accomplishments
i. Currently Has or Previously Received an EPA Brownfields Grant
(1) Purpose and Accomplishments
In 2017, GTPDD was awarded a $600,000 EPA Coalition Assessment Grant as the lead applicant. Under
this grant, an inventory of brownfield sites was established for the Region from input by the environmental
consultant and community outreach activities. Public input meetings were held at GTPDD board meetings
and various City and County Council Meetings throughout the region and throughout each quarter of the
grant. The Assessment Grant funded a total of 14 Environmental Site Assessments (ESA), six of which were
Phase IIs ESAs, for a total assessment amount of $374,226.01, or 62% of the total assessment grant award.
As a result of assessment work completed under this grant 191.3 acres are ready for reuse. Furthermore a
$264,000 EPA Cleanup Grant was procured for one of the sites assessed, which is the location of an
elementary school. The cleanup grant will eliminate dangerous, asbestos laden buildings within walking
distance of the school’s playground. Additional funds are expected to be leveraged as part of the project to
provide new grass, and potentially new play equipment. Additionally, along the MLK Corridor assessment
of a former gas station has led to a project currently under construction to be developed into an artesian coffee
shop, which is expected to create approximately 6 full time equivalent jobs following completion.
(2) Compliance with Grant Requirements
The 2017 EPA Assessment Grant closed in the Fall of 2020 with all funds spent. The dedicated EPA project
manager was updated throughout the life of the grant and ACRES was updated to reflect outputs and
outcomes. All compliance requirements were met for the work plan, Schedule and Terms and Conditions,
QAPP and Site Specific QAPP approvals, eligibility determinations, Health and Safety Plans, Quarterly
Reports, ACRES Reporting, and Financial Status Reports. The close-out documentation was submitted prior
to the December 31, 2020 deadline.
Threshold Criteria
1. Applicant Eligibility:
The Golden Triangle Planning and Development District (GTPDD) was formed by the State of
Mississippi’s Executive Order No. 81 as Regional Council. Please see the attachment under Applicant
Eligibility Documentation.
2. Community Involvement:
As part of an award, a project kick-off meeting will be held. This meeting will include a public
forum to discuss the grant, what the funds mean to the Region, and how the community can remain
involved. This will ensure an educated public and will allow for additional community involvement.
Communication regarding grant updates and opportunities will be conducted in a variety of ways,
including quarterly public meetings to regularly obtain community input through the life of the grant.
These meetings will be held at GTPDD’s office in Starkville, where elected officials from our seven-
county region and 20 municipalities, stakeholders, and residents are already accustomed to gathering.
The centrally located office will allow community members, stakeholders, and municipal government
entities from every County to participate. Additionally, GTPDD regularly attends public monthly
County/Municipality Board Meetings and has utilized these meetings to ensure that every
governmental entity and their constituents are able to provide feedback and ideas towards use of the
assessment funds and assist in outreach for their individual municipalities’ neighborhoods. Meetings
will be held at each County’s town/city to ensure a high level of attendance and involvement. GTPDD
saw great success during the FY2017 Assessment Grant by attending these meetings. By engaging the
local municipalities during the FY2017 grant cycle, four additional sites were identified as priorities
and included for assessment.
If COVID-19 makes meeting in person difficult and/or potentially dangerous, hybrid meetings
will be held, which is the GTPDD’s current format. A limited number of people will be invited to the
meeting in person while the remaining population may attend the gathering virtually through Zoom,
with which GTPDD has experience using. Meetings will be recorded for future viewing and a phone
number and email address will be provided for those that are unable to login to the Zoom platform.
These meetings will provide a method for the public to identify additional brownfield sites,
reprioritize known brownfield sites based on established criteria, and voice potential concerns.
Commentary will be collected in a variety of methods, including comment cards which can be dropped
off at GTPDD’s office, digitally through Zoom, or via email at any time. Once gathered, input will be
publicly posted for review by all stakeholders to allow for a back-and-forth engagement process.
GTPDD will then incorporate this input prior to making decisions regarding site assessment and future
reuse activities. Public meetings will also be utilized to present potential redevelopment opportunities
to interested developers by showcasing available brownfield sites and providing developers technical
assistance in obtaining additional financial incentives for planned redevelopment.
In order to reach residents that may not have the ability to attend public and/or virtual meetings,
communication regarding grant updates and input methods will also include press releases with the
local newspapers (online and in print), announcements on local news stations, flier distribution via
local businesses and community organizations, and City, County and project partner websites. Social
media, including the following Facebook pages, will also be utilized: GTPDD, Greater Starkville
Development Partnership, Starkville Area Arts Council, Lowndes County, Mississippi, and West Point
Life, reaching over 10,000 followers. All input received will be utilized by the GTPDD as sites are
selected for assessment and future planning activities take place.
3. Contractors and subrecipients:
A contractor/subrecipient has not been procured.
4. Expenditure of Assessment Grant Funds:
GTPDD does not have an open Assessment or Multipurpose Grant. The GTPDD received a Fiscal
Year 2017 EPA Assessment Coalition Grant that closed in the Fall of 2020 with all funds spent.
