Last week, the Greater Ohio Policy Center (GOPC) hosted the 2023 Ohio Brownfields Conference. Last week’s conference marked the first time in nearly six years that brownfields advocates gathered for a statewide conference. Over 230 attendees joined together for networking and learning, with 39 sponsors included in an exhibitor hall and eight breakout sessions.

Throughout the day, GOPC hosted eight panel sessions, featuring information via two optional tracks: “Brownfields 101” and “Brownfields 201.” These tracks provided attendees with general brownfields information, for those newer to the field, as well as a more technical focus in the “201” track. The lunchtime keynote was Tom Murphy, former Mayor of Pittsburgh and former Urban Land Institute fellow, who shared his insights on economic development trends across the United States and in Ohio, from his experiences as a former fellow at ULI.

GOPC sincerely appreciates the time and commitment from our twenty-seven panelists and our keynote for sharing their knowledge and expertise with our attendees. Additionally, GOPC appreciates the support of partner organizations that provided educational credit to attendees, which includes the American Planning Association – Ohio, the Ohio EPA, the Ohio Supreme Court, and the Ohio Economic Development Association.

The conference was made possible through the generous support of the 39 2023 Ohio Brownfields Conference sponsors. Throughout the day, attendees visited sponsor tables throughout the exhibitor tables to network with, and learn about, the work of these organizations. GOPC extends our appreciation to the conference sponsors!

GOPC looks forward to continuing to serve as Ohio’s lead brownfield advocate, as advocacy continues for additional grant dollars in the 2024-2025 Main Operating Budget for the Brownfields Remediation Fund. GOPC appreciates the support of brownfields stakeholders in this effort, and those who supported and attended the 2023 Ohio Brownfields Conference. With overwhelming support, GOPC looks forward to continuing to advocate for pertinent brownfields policies and gathering brownfields stakeholders to network, learn, and engage.

To stay connected with GOPC’s brownfields work, reach out to Aaron Clapper, GOPC’s Director of Outreach and Projects.