United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Solid Waste and
Emergency Response
(5102G)
& EPA
EPA542-R-01-017
October 2001
http://clu-in.org/bfwebsite
www.epa.gov/TIO
Status Report:
Initiatives to Develop Web Sites
Including Information about
Brownfields Properties
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Status Report:
Initiatives to Develop Web Sites
Including Information about
Brownfields Properties
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response
Technology Innovation Office
Washington, DC 20460
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
NOTICE
This document has been funded by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under
Contract 68-W-99-020. The document was subjected to the Agency's administrative and expert review
and was approved for publication as an EPA document. Mention of trade names or commercial products
does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The Technology Innovation Office would like to acknowledge and thank the individuals who provided
background material on current and planned web sites that include information about brownfields
properties.
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
CONTENTS
Section Page
KEY FINDINGS 1
1.0 BACKGROUND 2
2.0 FINDINGS OF THE STUDY 3
3.0 OPTIONAL WEB SITE DESIGN 5
4.0 SAMPLE FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS DOCUMENT 6
5.0 SUGGESTIONS FOR PROCEEDING 7
APPENDICES
A Approach to the Study
B Report on State Initiatives to Develop Site Exchange Web Sites
C Comparison of Items of Information from Current Web Sites (As of December 2000)
D Optional Web Site Design Prepared by EPA
E Sample Functional Requirements Document For Web Sites Including Information About
Brownfields Properties
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
KEY FINDINGS
There currently are numerous efforts at national, state, and local levels to develop web sites and
data bases including information about brownfields properties.
Developing web sites and databases is costly, but there are opportunities to leverage the
experiences of others and combine efforts to save resources and time.
A minimum number of data elements must be present to describe brownfields properties in order
for web sites to be a useful tool.
Many issues and concerns may inhibit the effectiveness of web sites as sources of public
information about brownfields properties.
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
1.0 BACKGROUND
In March 2000, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office of Solid Waste and Emergency
Response (OSWER) undertook a study to assess the feasibility of establishing a national brownfields site
exchange web site (exchange). Such a web site might enhance the exchange of information nationally
between owners of brownfields properties and potential purchasers thereof. Owners or purchasers of
brownfields properties could include local, state, and federal agencies; tribal governments; local
businesses; national corporations; developers; realtors; and investors. EPA believed the exchange could
help companies that offer site characterization and remediation services, innovative approaches and
technologies for cleaning up sites, and other services supporting the cleanup of brownfields properties.
The study revealed a number of hurdles that make it difficult for EPA to proceed with the establishment
of the exchange, and EPA has determined that other organizations may be better suited to proceed with
that effort.
EPA believes that the result of the study is the most comprehensive analysis that has been conducted of
web sites and databases (both referred to as web sites in this report) that include information about
current and planned brownfields properties. EPA is providing this report about the study and its findings
to assist other organizations developing and operating web sites that include information about such
properties. Appendix A to this report describes the approach to the study.
A number of cities, states, associations, non-profit organizations, and others have developed or are
planning web sites related to brownfields properties. Because many of the web sites appear to be similar,
there may be opportunities to share information and combine efforts. The various web sites exhibit
similarities in the configuration and information reported for given properties. Because the development
and operation of comprehensive web sites can require extensive resources, individuals who are designing
and operating them are encouraged to review other web sites and communicate with others who have
undertaken similar initiatives to determine opportunities to leverage individual efforts and thus save time
and money.
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
In addition to including basic information about the properties listed, such as location, size, zoning, and
ownership, many web sites include other information to assist potential buyers in making initial
evaluations of properties. Such information includes: (1) tax and other incentives being offered, (2) the
type(s) of contamination, (3) the extent to which contamination at the property has been characterized,
and (4) links to other web sites that provide more detailed information about the properties listed.
Drawing on the findings of the study, EPA prepared an optional web site design that presents one
possible approach to designing a web site and a sample functional requirements document. This report
discusses both tools in more detail.
Once a web site has been constructed, the operator of the system may have neither the capability nor the
resources to collect and routinely update data on large numbers of brownfields properties, particularly in
the case of national efforts that could involve thousands of properties. This report identifies potential
relationships with state and federal agencies, associations, and private companies that may be willing to
promote the collection of information and support the operation of web sites developed by other entities.
2.0 FINDINGS OF THE STUDY
The key findings of the research of other webs sites and discussions with potential users of the exchange
and staff of other federal agencies are discussed below.
Most individuals with experience in developing web sites are willing to share lessons
learned, and those considering the development of web sites would like to identify
opportunities to work with others to save time and money.
Most individuals and organizations that participated in the discussions supported the
concept of a national web site and expressed the belief that local, state, and federal
brownfields programs could benefit from such a web site; however, at the time the study
was conducted, they were not able to make firm commitments to provide either
information for the web site or operational resources.
Currently, national web sites contain minimal information about individual brownfields
properties; the operators are exploring methods of obtaining additional information about
such properties and keeping that information current.
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Some states currently operate web sites dedicated to listing brownfields properties.
Other states have web sites of environmentally impaired sites, in which brownfields
properties are included as a subset. Appendix B to this report is a list of states that were
contacted to determine whether they have collected or plan to collect information about
brownfield properties and make that information available to the public.
The web site designs that several states have developed could serve as a basis for other
entities developing similar web sites. Using those web sites could keep to a minimum
the resources necessary to develop new web sites. It appears that the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania has the most comprehensive web site of brownfields properties in the
nation. Second is the state of New Jersey, which has developed a comprehensive
database to be used as the basis for a web site. Massachusetts also has a web site of
brownfields information; however it includes only a limited number of sites. Appendix
C to this report shows the items of information the three states are interested in collecting
and the number of properties in their systems. Appendix C also includes a comparison
of the items of information for each of the three states, to the items of information
included in the optional web site design prepared by EPA (see Section 3.0).
There is a national database for properties potentially available for redevelopment under
the DoD Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) program; however, the information in it
may not be complete because local redevelopment authorities (LRA) have primary
responsibility for managing the transfer of DoD properties at their level, and thus
maintain information about their assigned properties. EPA held discussions with several
LRAs that were developing web sites. Representatives of those LRAs indicated a
willingness to continue discussions about the development of a national web site.
Emerging from the study were a number potential challenges to the development and
operation of web sites providing information about brownfields. The challenges arise
whether the effort is a local, regional, state, or national one. They are:
There is no regulatory mandate or other significant motivating factor that
encourages the development of comprehensive lists of brownfields properties.
The most significant motivation appears to be at the city and state level where
inventories of brownfields properties are helpful to establish a clearer picture of
where such properties are located, to determine the status of cleanup efforts, and
to track grants and other funds awarded to support redevelopment.
Generally, government agencies do not appear to have the level of resources
necessary to give priority to the development and operation of web sites that
include information about brownfields properties. Similarly, it appears that
private organizations and associations may not have the resources necessary for
a major effort.
Because they consider the "brownfields" designation negative, many property
owners are reluctant to include their properties in lists of brownfields properties
that will be available to the general public and to regulatory agencies.
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
There may be legal ramifications associated with advertising or otherwise
implying that a property is for sale merely because it appears on a list of
brownfields properties. An agreement may be required between property owners
and operators of web sites to verify the owners' desire to list the property and
offer it for sale.
Developers, realtors, and others who receive a fee for their role in property
transactions could lose those fees if bypassed via public web sites; they may
resist the use of such web sites.
3.0 OPTIONAL WEB SITE DESIGN
To assist others in developing their web sites, EPA prepared an optional web site design based upon the
review of current web sites and web sites being planned. The structure and data elements of the optional
design are built upon components found frequently in other web sites and appear to be widely accepted.
The optional design includes approximately 60 data elements, selected on the basis of the review of the
other web sites, as well as discussions with potential users. A key factor was an effort to strike a balance
between the traditional items that purchasers of commercial properties request to support evaluation of
properties and the information that describes the extent to which a purchaser must resolve potential
cleanup and liability issues associated with brownfields properties. Although many potential buyers of
properties suggested other items in addition to those included in the optional design, it encompasses the
majority of the information items found in current web sites or those are being considered for web sites
under design.
The optional design is available at . Appendix D reports information about
the optional design. The optional design includes a search function using combinations of parameters
and links to other web sites to provide more detailed information about the properties listed and the
capability to provide printed reports.
The optional design suggests a minimum set of data elements that should be present if the property is to
be listed on the web site. The 13 elements are:
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Street name Proposed zoning
City Status of site investigation
County Status of remediation
State Redevelopment incentives
Zip code Contact name
Size Contact phone number
Public or private ownership
The items were selected because: (1) they are likely to be the minimum elements that a prospective
purchaser of the property requires to determine whether the property is of interest and (2) it is reasonable
to assume that the items will be available for a large number of brownfields properties. Providing
information about the city, county, state, or Zip code allows users of the system to search the properties
at a variety of levels. Operators of individual web sites can modify the minimum data elements to meet
the needs of the potential users of their system.
To maximize the use of information available in local, state, or other web sites across the United States,
it may be possible to design a national web site to serve as a central link for all. One option could be to
use the minimum required data elements as a basis for the links. If the operators of the web sites agree to
use the minimum data points for their systems, a national web site could function as a search engine for
those systems.
4.0 SAMPLE FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS DOCUMENT
The sample functional requirements document included in Appendix E to this report presents a general
framework for the development of more detailed procedures that may be necessary to operate a web site
with information about brownfields properties. The sample functional requirements document is based
upon the optional web site design prepared by EPA. The functional requirements document describes the
relationship between the screens of the web site, procedures for entering data to the web site, definitions
of the suggested minimum data elements that must be present for each property, procedures for searching
the web site, and a sample search report. The sample functional requirements document also is available
at .
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
5.0 SUGGESTIONS FOR PROCEEDING
Drawing on the findings of its study, EPA offers the following suggestions to assist others who are
planning, designing, and operating web sites that include information about brownfields properties:
Consider the requirements of all potential users of a web site: To help ensure the
success of a web site, discussions should be held with target audiences that could benefit
from the site. Those audiences might include national corporations that purchase
brownfields properties, as well as associations with members who have redeveloped
brownfields properties successfully and actively seek new opportunities. The optional
web site design prepared by EPA can be used as a basis for further discussions about the
items of information that would be most useful to users of a web site.
Identify opportunities to build on lessons learned: The study revealed that many cities,
states, private parties, and other entities are embarking on individual efforts to develop
and operate web sites. Because many of those systems will be similar to one another,
efforts might be combined to save time and money. The information obtained through
the study could be used to guide that process. Any resources saved when developing
web sites could be used instead to gather, enter, and maintain complete and current
property information in the web site.
Identify opportunities to share information: A variety of entities have expended vast
resources to plan and design web sites. Increasing communication among potential users
and operators of web sites to identify common needs and approaches could save
significant funds.
Define actions and resources for moving forward: Any effort to list information about
the potentially thousands of brownfield properties across the nation will require a well-
defined plan and extensive resources. The steps to be taken in a national effort must be
defined and shared with all stakeholders in the process. Once the steps have been
defined, an estimate of the resources necessary can be made. Then parties could begin to
allocate the resources necessary to accelerate the concept.
Encourage the sharing of views and the development of strategic alliances: During the
study, EPA held discussions with a cross-section of potential users of web sites.
However, because the potential number of users is large, additional discussions are
warranted to ensure all valid views are represented. Many individuals, government
agencies, associations, and other entities have worked on brownfields web sites.
However, much of the work to date has been performed by individuals working on their
own. It would be beneficial to identify opportunities to bring those entities together to
form strategic alliances and partnerships as a means of maximizing resources and
"brainpower."
Identify past and current efforts: It would be beneficial to identify efforts by local, state,
and federal agencies and other entities that can serve as a basis for others to consider.
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INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
The efforts should include both web site designs and procedures for the collection and
maintenance of information about properties. Information about efforts that have not
been successful also should be shared.
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Appendix A
Approach to the Study
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
In conducting its study, EPA recognized that other web sites, current or planned, contain or will include
information about brownfields properties and other distressed properties that have potential reuse value.
The study included meetings with potential buyers and sellers of brownfields properties, as well as other
national and local brownfields stakeholders, to: (1) learn more about those web sites; (2) solicit ideas
about and suggestions for ways in which the exchange could best serve their needs; and (3) identify
potential opportunities to coordinate the exchange with other efforts to list brownfields properties.
National web sites that were reviewed and their affiliations or sponsoring entities are:
(National Brownfield Association);
(U.S. Chamber of Commerce);
(Polymer Alliance Zone of West Virginia (PAZ); the web site was
formerly affiliated with SAIC Inc.);
(Council for Urban Economic Development, National Association of
Installation Developers, and others).
In addition to discussions with those organizations, EPA participated in discussions with other
organizations that support the national Brownfields Program, as well as state agencies that are developing
web sites that include information about brownfields properties. The purpose of the discussions was to
obtain insight into the experiences of those organizations in establishing similar web sites and to
determine the organizations' level of interest in supporting the development and operation of a national
web site. The other organizations with which discussions were held include the Environmental
Redevelopment Association and the National Association of State Development Agencies; the states with
which discussion were held include Pennsylvania and New Jersey. EPA also chaired a special session at
the national Brownfields 2000 conference in Atlantic City, New Jersey in October 2000 to discuss local,
state, and national efforts to collect and disseminate information about brownfields properties. EPA used
that opportunity to continue dialogue about the potential exchange with many of the organizations listed
above, several state agencies, as well as others that participated in the session.
EPA also conducted discussions with federal "landholder" agencies to determine: (1) the status of efforts
of those agencies to develop web sites that provide information about properties that are available for
transfer or sale, (2) their experiences in developing web sites, and (3) potential opportunities to link their
information to the exchange. EPA held discussions with staff of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD),
the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and the General Services Administration (GSA). The most in-
Appendix A-l Approach to the Study
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ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
depth discussions were held with DoD staff involved in the Base Realignment and Closure Program
(BRAC) Program because the BRAC Program and the Brownfields Program exhibit a number of
similarities in the area of support for economic redevelopment. The discussions with DoE and GSA were
limited and therefore are considered preliminary. (It should be noted that properties that are the
responsibility of the three agencies identified above are not necessarily considered brownfields
properties. In some cases, they are "excess" property, and their redevelopment may not be hampered by
real or perceived environmental contamination.)
Appendix A-2 Approach to the Study
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ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Appendix B
Report on State Initiatives to Develop Site Exchange Web Sites
NOTE: The information presented in this report was obtained from informal discussions with personnel
representing (1) states that approached EPA to discuss their potential involvement in the
brownfields site exchange, (2) states that have publicly available web sites that include
information about individual brownfields properties and other sites, and (3) a random sampling
of other states. The report provides a general "snapshot" of the availability of information about
brownfields property nationwide and efforts by states to collect such information and present it
to the general public. The report is not intended to be a fully accurate and complete
representation of any individual state program, nor of the potential for those states to participate
ultimately in a national web site containing brownfields properties. This report was prepared
during December 2000; the status of the state initiatives may have changed since that time. EPA
wishes to thank the individuals who provided information for this analysis.
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
STATE INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP SITE EXCHANGE WEB SITES
A: States Listing Properties for Sale as of December 2000
State
Program Title
URL (Web Address)
Connecticut
http://www. state, ct. us/cda/cra
Massachusetts
BF-JUMP SFARF
http://www.massbrownfields. state.
ma.us
New Jersey
New Jersey Brownfield Site Marketing
Inventory
(MS Access database)*
*Fhe inventory is now available online
at http://www.state.nj.us/osp/brownfld/
njbsmi.htm
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Fand Recycling Program
http://www. dep. state. pa. us/dep/
deputate/airwaste/wm/landrecy/
Inventory/Sites, htm
Contact Name
Responsible Agency
Phone Number
Cynthia Petruzzello
Connecticut
Development Authority
(CDA)
(860) 258-7833
Fodd Fernandez
Governor's Office for
Brownfields
Revitalization
(617) 973-8989
JoAnn Petrizzo
Department of
Community Affairs
(609) 633-7536
Fricia Maggio
Office of State Planning
(609) 633-7730
Fhomas Mellot
Department of
Environmental
Protection
(717) 787-4681
Does State Collect
Brownfields
Information?
If so is it accessible?
Yes, the inventory of
brownfields sites is
publicly accessible
Yes, the Governor's
Office has a publicly
available web site of
brownfields properties.
Fhe state took
responsibility for
developing the
framework and
updating the database
periodically.
Yes, the state is
developing a
brownfields inventory.
It is currently available
on an MS Access
database for discussion
purposes.
Yes, state has developed
a comprehensive web
site and database
structure; it is available
to the public.
What Information Is
Included?
Primarily demographics
and contact information
Site demographics,
government programs,
insurance, financing,
legal issues
Contacts, site
description, ownership,
transportation systems,
utilities, environment,
incentives
Focation, contacts,
description, taxes,
utilities, environment,
incentives
How Complete Are the
Data?
170 sites
12 sites listed
36 sites listed (public)
Fhe database currently
lists 252 sites, but only
a small number of
information items are
complete for all sites
Comments
Fhe state has encountered some
problems in obtaining property
information. State may require a
disclaimer to share information with
other web sites.
Participants submit property listings
or register as buyers online. Fhe state
is not involved directly in
maintaining the system, but it is
increasing efforts to market the
system. Fhe state would consider
sharing information with other web
sites.
Fhe state is considering how the
brownfields inventory will interface
with other state lists of sites. Fhe
state also is investigating how to
work with owners of private sites
who are reluctant to list their
properties on a public web site. Fhe
state is very willing to discuss lessons
learned.
Fhe state has used contractor
resources to assist in the development
of the web site and pays fees to site
owners to list properties. Fhe state is
moving forward with requests for
new and updated information from
site owners to enhance the database.
Although the web site appears to be
the most advanced nationally, the
state prefers not to offer it as a model
at this time.
Appendix
B-l
Report on State Initiatives to Develop Site Exchange Web Sites
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STATE INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP SITE EXCHANGE WEB SITES
B: Status of Initiatives by Other States as of December 2000
State
Program Title
URL (Web Address)
California
Site Mitigation Program
http://www.dtsc.ca.gov/site mil/
about.html
Delaware
http://sirb. awm. dnrec. state, de. us/
Florida
http://www. dep. state.fl. us/dwm/
programs/brownfields
Illinois
http://www. epa. state, il. us/land/
brownfields/index. html
Contact Name
Responsible Agency
Phone Number
Sandra Karinen
Dept. of Toxic
Substances Control
(916)255-3745
Jim Poling
Dept. of Natural
Resources and
Environmental Control
(302) 395-2636
Roger Register
Dept. of Environmental
Protection
(850)488-0190
Steve Colantino, Office
ofBrownfields
Assistance
(217) 785-9407
Rosalyn Jackson
Dept. of Commerce &
Community Affairs
(DCCA) (217) 524-
0169
Does State Collect
Brownfields
Information?
If so is it accessible?
No, the issue is how to
define brownfields and
limited funding.
No, the state has a
database of
contaminated sites and a
geographic information
system (GIS) for
contaminated sites, but
not brownfields
specifically.
No, Mr. Register
indicated the state had
decided not to prepare a
list that provides site
information because of
the negative perception
of brownfields sites.
The state has only a list
of designated
brownfields areas in a
pdf file that includes the
name of the area and the
ID number.
No, Mr. Colantino
indicated the state sees
no value in collecting
brownfields information
on a state- wide basis.
The state believes the
market has a tendency
to make the system
work.
What Information Is
Included?
N/A
Demographics, owner
information, site
history, site
contaminants, site
status, and deed
restrictions
N/A
N/A
How Complete Are the
Data?
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Comments
The state relies on local governments
to provide the listing services and
GIS mapping. Miami-Dade County
has a list. The state did consider
establishing a state-wide database.
DCCA is considering establishing a
listing service.
Appendix
B-2
Report on State Initiatives to Develop Site Exchange Web Sites
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STATE INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP SITE EXCHANGE WEB SITES
B: Status of Initiatives by Other States as of December 2000
State
Program Title
URL (Web Address)
Iowa
Kentucky
http://www. nr. state, ky. us/nrepc/dep/
waste/programs/sf/vcpguide. htm
Nevada
http://www.state.nv.us/ndep/bca/
brownfld.htm
North Carolina
http://wastenot. enr.state.nc. us/sjhome/
brnfld.htm
Contact Name
Responsible Agency
Phone Number
Elly Walkowiak
Office of Economic
Development
(City of Des Moines)
(515)237-1351
Herb Petitjean
Natural Resources and
Environmental
Protection Cabinet
(502) 564-6716
Connie Lewis
Division of
Environmental
Protection
(775) 687-4670, ext.
3024
Bruce Nicholson
Dept. of Environment
and Natural Resources
(919) 733-2801
John Berndt
Dept. of Commerce
(919) 733-2850
Joe Alexander
Research Triangle
Institute
(919) 541-7025
Does State Collect
Brownfields
Information?
If so is it accessible?
The state is considering
developing a GIS-based
system of brownfields
and other sites.
No, those requesting
site information are
directed to the
Economic Development
staff for the specific
cities or counties of
interest.
No, Nevada's
Brownfields program is
in its initial stages.
No, the Brownfields
Program is in its initial
stages, and funding is
limited. The
Department of
Commerce maintains a
brownfields working
group that is
considering the
preparation of an
inventory of sites to
encourage
redevelopment.
What Information Is
Included?
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
How Complete Are the
Data?
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Comments
The state is interested in lessons
learned by others and potentially
reducing the costs of developing its
own system.
The state is very interested in a listing
service, especially for the Reno area.
Research Triangle Institute is
considering the establishment of a
web site called "Smart Sites," which
would list brownfields properties.
Appendix
B-3
Report on State Initiatives to Develop Site Exchange Web Sites
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STATE INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP SITE EXCHANGE WEB SITES
B: Status of Initiatives by Other States as of December 2000
State
Program Title
URL (Web Address)
New York
Clean Water/Clean Air Bond Act of
1996 Environmental Restoration
Projects, Brownfields Program
http://www.dec.state.ny.us/website/der/
bfieldfs.html
Oregon
Potential Brownfields
http://www. deq. state, or. us/wmc/
cleanup/brnO. htm
Puerto Rico
Brownfields Initiative
http://www.epa.gov/
region02/superfnd/brownfld/
contact.htm
Contact Name
Responsible Agency
Phone Number
Christine Costopoulos
(Chief) and Sue
Bolesky (Database
Admin.)
New York State Depart
of Environmental
Conservation
(NYSDEC)
(518)475-7894
Brooks Koening
Department of
Environmental Quality
(DEQ)
(503)229-6801
Nuria Muniz
(Brownfields Project
Manager)
EPA Region 2
(212) 637-4302
Jesus Riekohl
(Environmental Science
Specialist)
Emergency Response
and Superfund Area,
Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico
(787)767-8181,ext.
2232
Does State Collect
Brownfields
Information?
If so is it accessible?
The database available
to the public is a
programmatic reference
library, rather than a
site-specific catalogue.
NYSDEC, however,
does have a tracking
system for sites for
which applications are
made for grants or loans
to support voluntary
cleanup. The data,
however, are not made
publicly available.
A list of potential
brownfields is available
on the web site. The list
is organized by county.
The commonwealth has
no formal system for
collecting or organizing
data for brownfields
sites.
What Information Is
Included?
The state tracks site-
specific loan
applications. The data
are not intended for
publication or release
because of
confidentiality.
Location, size, NPL
status, contaminants,
concentrations, media,
and status with DEQ
N/A
How Complete Are the
Data?
The database contains
information for more
than 200 sites. The
effort is not, however,
an attempt to catalogue
all brownfields sites.
There are two
databases: one has
more than 2,000 entries
under environmental
cleanup, and the other
has 6,600 entries under
UST cleanup.
N/A
Comments
The state may have difficulty sharing
information with other web sites
because of confidentiality issues.
The potential list of brownfields
includes information about sites at
which contamination has been
reported and about the progress of
cleanup efforts.
Appendix
B-4
Report on State Initiatives to Develop Site Exchange Web Sites
-------
STATE INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP SITE EXCHANGE WEB SITES
B: Status of Initiatives by Other States as of December 2000
State
Program Title
URL (Web Address)
Tennessee
Voluntary Cleanup, Oversight, and
Assistance Program
http://www. state, tn. us/environment/dsf/
voap.htm
Texas
Voluntary Cleanup Program
http://www.tnrcc. state, tx. us/permitting/
remed/vcp/index. html
Virginia
Voluntary Remediation Program
http://www. deq. state, va. us/vrp
Contact Name
Responsible Agency
Phone Number
Frank Grubs (Asst.
Director)
Tennessee Department
of Environment and
Conservation (TDEC)
(615)532-0900
(888) 891 -TDEC
Byron Ellington
Texas National
Resource Conservation
Commission (TNRCC)
(512)239-2253
Jerry Grimes
Virginia Department of
Environmental Quality
(DEQ)
(804) 698-4207
Kevin Greene
Virginia DEQ
(804) 698-4236
Does State Collect
Brownfields
Information?
If so is it accessible?
The state provides
oversight and assistance
to volunteer sites.
There is no apparent
catalogue of individual
sites.
Texas has a voluntary
cleanup database that is
publicly available
(download from web
site).
The program provides
certification of
satisfactory completion
of remediation. There
is no apparent catalogue
of sites.
What Information Is
Included?
N/A
The program lists
primarily site
demographics, with
brief descriptions of
cleanup remedies.
N/A
How Complete Are the
Data?
N/A
The database contains
information about 1,166
sites
N/A
Comments
The coordinator frequently receives
requests for a list of brownfields sites
and would consider participating in a
national web site. For each site
listed, there is a plan for addressing
contamination and disposing of
property; therefore, the information
may not be marketable on a national
web site.
DEQ is encouraging the listing of
properties through the Economic
Development Partnership, which is
developing a database of buyers and
sellers of shell buildings. The
database does not have a direct focus
on brownfields. Property owners
may be hesitant to list their properties
under DEQ because of the stigma
associated with contamination and
enforcement issues.
Appendix
B-5
Report on State Initiatives to Develop Site Exchange Web Sites
-------
STATE INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP SITE EXCHANGE WEB SITES
B: Status of Initiatives by Other States as of December 2000
State
Program Title
URL (Web Address)
Washington
Voluntary Cleanup Program
http://www. ecy. wa. gov/programs/tcp/
vcp/Vcpmain. htm
Wisconsin
Brownfields Location Information
System (BLIS)
Contact Name
Responsible Agency
Phone Number
Joe Hickey (Northwest
regional office
coordinator)
Washington State
Department of Ecology
(425) 649-7202
Harold Bucholz
Department of Ecology
(360)407-7185
Jason Scott
Department of
Commerce
(608)261-7714
Does State Collect
Brownfields
Information?
If so is it accessible?
The program provides a
consulting service (on a
fee-for- service basis)
for evaluating cleanup
for sites at which
voluntary cleanups have
been undertaken. There
is no formal
cataloguing; however,
the program keeps track
informally of cleanups
conducted through the
voluntary cleanup
program.
Information is available
only as a "prototype" of
the system.
What Information Is
Included?
Several databases
containing site cleanup
information are being
combined, but there is
no information specific
to brownfields.
Location, size, zoning,
financial, utilities, and
environmental factors
How Complete Are the
Data?
The "Hazardous Sites
List" identifies sites that
have been assessed and
ranked but they are not
limited to brownfields
sites.
State staff worked with
individual site owners
and conducted their
own research to build a
prototype database that
contains information
about approximately 1 5
sites.
Comments
There is no specific legislative
mandate for brownfields; however,
the state works with EPA to promote
brownfields loans and grants. The
program does not focus on
redevelopment; its focus is on
cleanup.
Because of concerns on the part of
private property owners about listing
their properties, the initial system
may include only a limited number of
publicly owned properties.
Notes:
N/A not applicable
Appendix
B-6
Report on State Initiatives to Develop Site Exchange Web Sites
-------
STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Appendix C
Comparison of Items of Information
from Current Web Sites
(As of December 2000)
-------
STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Comparison of Items of Information
from Current Web Sites
(As of December 2000)
Optional Web Site Design
Prepared by EPA
Information Item
New Jersey Brownfields
Inventory
(Total Number of Sites = 36)
Match
Sites
Matched
(#)
Sites
Matched
(%)
Pennsylvania's Land Recycling
Program
(Total Number of Sites = 252)
Match
Sites
Matched
(#)
Sites
Matched
(%)
Massachusetts Brownfields
(Total Number of Sites = 12)
Match
Sites
Matched
(#)
Sites
Matched
(%)
Sites
Matched
(Total #)
1. SITE NAME, OWNER OR AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE
Site Name *
Street Address *
Site City *
Site State *
Site County
Site Zip * (If included, may not
need Site City or Site State j
Owner Name
Contact First Name*
Contact Last Name*
Contact Title
Contact Relationship
(relationship to owner)
Contact Address
©
X
36
36
36
36
36
32
28
16
16
0
36
27
100
100
100
100
100
89
78
44
44
0
100
75
0
X
0
0
X
X
X
141
224
252
252
252
126
0
93
93
0
0
0
56
89
100
100
100
50
0
37
37
0
0
0
O
O
X
0
X
0
0
X
O
11
11
11
11
11
11
0
12
12
0
12
11
92
92
92
92
92
92
0
100
100
0
100
92
188
271
299
299
299
169
28
121
121
0
48
38
* Suggested Required Date Element - See Appendix E: Sample Functional Requirements Document for Web Sites Including Information About
Brownfields Properties: Table 1 - Suggested Data Elements that Should be Listed for Each Site.
Match
Exact Match: The information item is exactly the same as the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA.
O More General Match: The information item is more general than the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA. For example, the EPA
design asks for the first and last name for the site contact. The Massachusetts Brownfields web site asks for a contact name, but does not specify the
information that should be provided.
© More Specific Match: The information item is more specific than the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA. For example, the EPA
design includes a data element for " rail access" that asks for the distance to rail access from the site. The Massachusetts Brownfields web site asks for
the name of the nearest rail access and the distance to it measured to the nearest 0.1 mile.
X No Match: The current web site does not include the data element that appears in the web site design prepared by EPA.
Appendix
C-l
Comparison of Items of Information
-------
STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Optional Web Site Design
Prepared by EPA
Information Item
Contact City
Contact State
Contact Zip
Contact Phone*
Contact Fax
Contact E-Mail
Site Publicly Owned
(Municipality, County, State,
Federal, Other) *
Site Privately Owned
(Individual, Corporation,
Partnership, Trust, Other)
Site Ownership Description (if
Other was selected)
Link to Other Web Site Name
Link to Other Web Site URL
Link to Other Web Site
Description
New Jersey Brownfields
Inventory
(Total Number of Sites = 36)
Match
X
o
o
X
X
X
Sites
Matched
(#)
27
27
27
27
27
0
36
36
36
0
0
0
Sites
Matched
(%)
75
75
75
75
75
0
100
100
100
0
0
0
Pennsylvania's Land Recycling
Program
(Total Number of Sites = 252)
Match
O
0
0
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Sites
Matched
(#)
252
252
252
252
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Sites
Matched
(%)
100
100
100
100
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Massachusetts Brownfields
(Total Number of Sites = 12)
Match
O
0
0
X
X
X
X
X
X
Sites
Matched
(#)
11
11
11
12
10
7
0
0
0
0
0
0
Sites
Matched
(%)
92
92
92
100
83
58
0
0
0
0
0
0
Sites
Matched
(Total #)
290
290
290
291
37
7
36
36
36
0
0
0
* Suggested Required Date Element - See Appendix E: Sample Functional Requirements Document for Web Sites Including Information About
Brownfields Properties: Table 1 - Suggested Data Elements that Should be Listed for Each Site.
Match
Exact Match: The information item is exactly the same as the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA.
O More General Match: The information item is more general than the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA. For example, the EPA
design asks for the first and last name for the site contact. The Massachusetts Brownfields web site asks for a contact name, but does not specify the
information that should be provided.
© More Specific Match: The information item is more specific than the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA. For example, the EPA
design includes a data element for " rail access" that asks for the distance to rail access from the site. The Massachusetts Brownfields web site asks for
the name of the nearest rail access and the distance to it measured to the nearest 0.1 mile.
X No Match: The current web site does not include the data element that appears in the web site design prepared by EPA.
Appendix
C-2
Comparison of Items of Information
-------
STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Optional Web Site Design
Prepared by EPA
Information Item
New Jersey Brownfields
Inventory
(Total Number of Sites = 36)
Match
Sites
Matched
(#)
Sites
Matched
(%)
Pennsylvania's Land Recycling
Program
(Total Number of Sites = 252)
Match
Sites
Matched
(#)
Sites
Matched
(%)
Massachusetts Brownfields
(Total Number of Sites = 12)
Match
Sites
Matched
(#)
Sites
Matched
(%)
Sites
Matched
(Total #)
2. SITE DESCRIPTION
Site Description (Text)
Site Length
Site Width
Total Acres *
Existing Buildings (#)
Building Description
Pavement
Parking Spaces (#)
Current Site Status (Abandoned,
Active, Income Production)
Current Zoning *
TIE District
Enterprise Zone
Empowerment Zone
0
0
0
X
X
X
X
8
5
5
14
10
0
0
0
36
36
0
30
6
22
13
13
39
28
0
0
0
100
100
0
85
20
X
X
o
o
X
X
X
0
X
X
X
0
0
0
252
103
83
0
0
0
131
0
0
0
0
0
0
100
41
33
0
0
0
52
0
0
0
X
X
X
X
X
X
0
X
X
X
0
0
0
0
7
0
0
0
0
12
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
58
0
0
0
0
100
0
0
0
8
5
5
266
120
83
0
0
36
179
0
30
6
* Suggested Required Date Element - See Appendix E: Sample Functional Requirements Document for Web Sites Including Information About
Brownfields Properties: Table 1 - Suggested Data Elements that Should be Listed for Each Site.
Match
Exact Match: The information item is exactly the same as the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA.
O More General Match: The information item is more general than the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA. For example, the EPA
design asks for the first and last name for the site contact. The Massachusetts Brownfields web site asks for a contact name, but does not specify the
information that should be provided.
© More Specific Match: The information item is more specific than the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA. For example, the EPA
design includes a data element for " rail access" that asks for the distance to rail access from the site. The Massachusetts Brownfields web site asks for
the name of the nearest rail access and the distance to it measured to the nearest 0.1 mile.
X No Match: The current web site does not include the data element that appears in the web site design prepared by EPA.
Appendix
C-3
Comparison of Items of Information
-------
STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Optional Web Site Design
Prepared by EPA
Information Item
New Jersey Brownfields
Inventory
(Total Number of Sites = 36)
Match
Sites
Matched
(#)
Sites
Matched
(%)
Pennsylvania's Land Recycling
Program
(Total Number of Sites = 252)
Match
Sites
Matched
(#)
Sites
Matched
(%)
Massachusetts Brownfields
(Total Number of Sites = 12)
Match
Sites
Matched
(#)
Sites
Matched
(%)
Sites
Matched
(Total #)
3. TAX AND DEED INFORMATION
Tax Parcel Number(s)
Property Tax (amount)
Property Tax Current
Date Paid
Liens or Judgments
Easements
Land Use/Dead Restrictions
Title Available
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
110
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
44
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
110
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
4. TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS
Traffic Study Completed
Road Access
Highway Access
Waterfront Access
Rail Access
Airport Access
Public Transportation
X
©
X
X
0
25
25
0
2
0
4
0
66
66
00
6
0
12
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
©
o
©
X
©
©
©
0
0
9
0
4
5
3
0
0
75
0
33
41
25
0
25
34
0
6
5
7
* Suggested Required Date Element - See Appendix E: Sample Functional Requirements Document for Web Sites Including Information About
Brownfields Properties: Table 1 - Suggested Data Elements that Should be Listed for Each Site.
Match
Exact Match: The information item is exactly the same as the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA.
O More General Match: The information item is more general than the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA. For example, the EPA
design asks for the first and last name for the site contact. The Massachusetts Brownfields web site asks for a contact name, but does not specify the
information that should be provided.
© More Specific Match: The information item is more specific than the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA. For example, the EPA
design includes a data element for " rail access" that asks for the distance to rail access from the site. The Massachusetts Brownfields web site asks for
the name of the nearest rail access and the distance to it measured to the nearest 0.1 mile.
X No Match: The current web site does not include the data element that appears in the web site design prepared by EPA.
Appendix
C-4
Comparison of Items of Information
-------
STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Optional Web Site Design
Prepared by EPA
Information Item
New Jersey Brownfields
Inventory
(Total Number of Sites = 36)
Match
Sites
Matched
(#)
Sites
Matched
(%)
Pennsylvania's Land Recycling
Program
(Total Number of Sites = 252)
Match
Sites
Matched
(#)
Sites
Matched
(%)
Massachusetts Brownfields
(Total Number of Sites = 12)
Match
Sites
Matched
(#)
Sites
Matched
(%)
Sites
Matched
(Total #)
5. UTILITIES
Public Water
Public Sewer
Electricity
Gas
X
4
4
0
1
12
12
0
3
0
0
0
o
37
37
37
37
15
15
15
15
12
12
12
12
100
100
100
100
28
53
49
50
6. SITE HISTORY
First Site Improvement (year)
Years Under Operation
Ownership Change
History of Use
X
X
X
X
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
X
X
X
X
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
X
X
X
X
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
7. ENVIRONMENT
Wetlands
Sensitive Ecosystems
Endangered Species
Historic or Archeological Site
Located in Flood Plain
Phase I Completed *
Phase II Completed *
X
X
X
X
X
0
o
0
0
0
0
0
15
15
0
0
0
0
0
40
40
o
o
0
X
X
0
o
37
37
37
0
0
48
48
15
15
15
0
0
19
19
o
0
0
©
X
X
12
0
0
0
12
0
0
100
0
0
0
100
0
0
49
37
37
0
12
63
63
* Suggested Required Date Element - See Appendix E: Sample Functional Requirements Document for Web Sites Including Information About
Brownfields Properties: Table 1 - Suggested Data Elements that Should be Listed for Each Site.
Match
Exact Match: The information item is exactly the same as the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA.
O More General Match: The information item is more general than the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA. For example, the EPA
design asks for the first and last name for the site contact. The Massachusetts Brownfields web site asks for a contact name, but does not specify the
information that should be provided.
© More Specific Match: The information item is more specific than the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA. For example, the EPA
design includes a data element for " rail access" that asks for the distance to rail access from the site. The Massachusetts Brownfields web site asks for
the name of the nearest rail access and the distance to it measured to the nearest 0.1 mile.
X No Match: The current web site does not include the data element that appears in the web site design prepared by EPA.
Appendix
C-5
Comparison of Items of Information
-------
STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Optional Web Site Design
Prepared by EPA
Information Item
Reports Available
Voluntary Cleanup Program
Remediation in Progress *
Regulatory Sign-off Completed
Site on Government
Environmental List(s)
Litigation Involvement
New Jersey Brownfields
Inventory
(Total Number of Sites = 36)
Match
X
X
X
X
Sites
Matched
(#)
8
0
7
0
0
0
Sites
Matched
(%)
24
0
20
0
0
0
Pennsylvania's Land Recycling
Program
(Total Number of Sites = 252)
Match
O
X
X
X
X
X
Sites
Matched
(#)
48
0
0
0
0
0
Sites
Matched
(%)
19
0
0
0
0
0
Massachusetts Brownfields
(Total Number of Sites = 12)
Match
X
X
X
X
Sites
Matched
(#)
12
12
0
0
0
0
Sites
Matched
(%)
100
100
0
0
0
0
Sites
Matched
(Total #)
68
12
7
0
0
0
8. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Level of Involvement
Community Concerns (Text)
X
X
0
0
0
0
X
X
0
0
0
0
X
X
0
0
0
0
0
0
9. INCENTIVES
Available Govt. Support *
Incentive Type *
©
©
33
33
90
90
0
o
224
224
89
89
X
X
0
0
0
0
257
257
10. MARKET INFORMATION
Zoning Change Required
Developer Identified
Development Plan Complete
Market Study Complete
o
0
0
0
36
36
36
0
100
100
100
0
X
X
X
X
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
X
X
X
X
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
36
36
36
0
* Suggested Required Date Element - See Appendix E: Sample Functional Requirements Document for Web Sites Including Information About
Brownfields Properties: Table 1 - Suggested Data Elements that Should be Listed for Each Site.
Match
Exact Match: The information item is exactly the same as the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA.
O More General Match: The information item is more general than the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA. For example, the EPA
design asks for the first and last name for the site contact. The Massachusetts Brownfields web site asks for a contact name, but does not specify the
information that should be provided.
© More Specific Match: The information item is more specific than the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA. For example, the EPA
design includes a data element for " rail access" that asks for the distance to rail access from the site. The Massachusetts Brownfields web site asks for
the name of the nearest rail access and the distance to it measured to the nearest 0.1 mile.
X No Match: The current web site does not include the data element that appears in the web site design prepared by EPA.
Appendix
C-6
Comparison of Items of Information
-------
STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Optional Web Site Design
Prepared by EPA
Information Item
Highest/Best End Use Identified
Transfer Options
Other Pertinent Information
(Text)
New Jersey Brownfields
Inventory
(Total Number of Sites = 36)
Match
X
X
Sites
Matched
(#)
0
0
1
Sites
Matched
(%)
0
0
3
Pennsylvania's Land Recycling
Program
(Total Number of Sites = 252)
Match
X
X
Sites
Matched
(#)
0
186
0
Sites
Matched
(%)
0
74
0
Massachusetts Brownfields
(Total Number of Sites = 12)
Match
X
X
X
Sites
Matched
(#)
0
0
0
Sites
Matched
(%)
0
0
0
Sites
Matched
(Total #)
0
186
1
* Suggested Required Date Element - See Appendix E: Sample Functional Requirements Document for Web Sites Including Information About
Brownfields Properties: Table 1 - Suggested Data Elements that Should be Listed for Each Site.
Match
Exact Match: The information item is exactly the same as the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA.
O More General Match: The information item is more general than the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA. For example, the EPA
design asks for the first and last name for the site contact. The Massachusetts Brownfields web site asks for a contact name, but does not specify the
information that should be provided.
© More Specific Match: The information item is more specific than the information item in the web site design prepared by EPA. For example, the EPA
design includes a data element for " rail access" that asks for the distance to rail access from the site. The Massachusetts Brownfields web site asks for
the name of the nearest rail access and the distance to it measured to the nearest 0.1 mile.
X No Match: The current web site does not include the data element that appears in the web site design prepared by EPA.
Appendix
C-7
Comparison of Items of Information
-------
STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Items of Information from Current Web Sites That Are Not Included in the Optional Web Site Design Prepared by EPA
Information Item
(List of items of information not included in the EPA
optional web site design prepared by EPA)
New Jersey Brownfields
Inventory
# Records Not Null
Pennsylvania's Land Recycling
Program
# Records Not Null
Total # Records Not Null
Site Location
Municipality
0*
252
252
Tax and Deed Information
Sale Price
Lease Price
Assessed Value
Redevelopment Priority (low, medium, high)
Tax Sale Certificate
0*
0*
2
5
0
10
0
0*
0*
0*
10
0
2
5
0
Property Ownership
Property Owner Info (Address, city, state, zip, phone,
email, fax)
Contact Company
Contact E-mail
Grants Approval
Other Incentives
Preliminary Assessment
29
0*
0*
2
2
18
0*
252
55
0*
0*
0*
29
252
55
2
2
18
* Information item does not exist.
Appendix
Co
-o
Comparison of Items of Information
-------
Appendix D
Optional Web Site Design Prepared by EPA
NOTE: This appendix is available on line at .
This web site is an optional design of a potential web application. It is for display purposes only.
It is currently not connected to a live database. The forms on this web site are not functional, and
the brownfields property information presented is fictional. All graphics, layouts, and other
elements of the web site can be changed to meet the needs of individual users.
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Appendix E
Sample Functional Requirements Document
For Web Sites Including Information
About Brownfields Properties
-------
STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Table of Contents
Section Page
1.0 INTRODUCTION E-l
1.1 BACKGROUND E-l
1.2 OBJECTIVES FOR WEB SITES THAT INCLUDE BROWNFIELDS
PROPERTIES E-l
2.0 OVERVIEW OF WEB SITE OPERATING SYSTEMS E-2
2.1 SYSTEM PLATFORM AND INTERFACE E-3
2.2 WEB SITE LAYOUT AND DESIGN E-3
2.3 HOME PAGE E-4
2.4 FIND PROPERTIES FUNCTION E-4
2.5 REGISTRATION FUNCTION AND AUTOMATIC E-MAIL NOTIFICATION E-9
2.6 DATA PROVIDERS (ADD/UPDATE RECORDS) E-9
2.7 WEB SITE ADMINISTRATION E-10
3.0 DATA DESCRIPTION AND ORGANIZATION E-ll
3.1 DATA STRUCTURE E-ll
3.2 DATA MANAGEMENT AND SITE MAINTENANCE E-12
Tables
1 Suggested Data Elements That Should Be Listed for Each Site E-ll
2 Sample Data Maintenance Cycle E-13
Figures
1 Web Site Diagram E-3
2 Mockup of a Search Page E-5
3 Mockup of a Summary Search Results Page E-6
4 Mockup of the Detailed Property Information Page E-7
Appendix E-i Sample Functional Requirements Document
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
1.0 INTRODUCTION
This functional requirements document describes sample procedures that potentially could assist
individuals who are planning, designing, and operating web sites that include information about
individual brownfields properties. With proper design and operation, web sites have the potential to
enhance the exchange of information between sellers and buyers of brownfields properties at the local,
state, regional, and national levels. The sample procedures are based on a web site design that the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed as an optional design for consideration by those
individuals who currently are planning, designing or operating web sites that list brownfields properties.
The optional design is available at . The purpose of this functional
requirements document is to provide a general framework for a more detailed set of procedures typically
required to operate web sites. The extent to which a more detailed set of procedures will be required for
each web site is dependant upon the complexity and operating parameters of that web site.
1.1 BACKGROUND
In conjunction with its study to assess the feasibility of establishing a national brownfields site exchange
web site, EPA met with potential buyers and sellers of brownfields properties, as well as other national
and local stakeholders, to solicit their ideas and suggestions about how to operate such a web site in order
to best serve their needs. In general, many property owners appear to be willing to provide information
about their properties, but lack the resources required to collect and assemble comprehensive information
and update it routinely. On the other hand, prospective buyers of brownfields properties desire as much
information as possible to enhance their ability to screen properties and identify the properties that best
meet the buyers' criteria. On the basis of its discsussion with brownfields stakeholders, observations of
information that is currently collected about brownfields properties, and information that is available to
the general public about listings of brownfields properties, EPA is providing a suggested minimum set of
information items that should be present for a property in order to include that property in a web site that
lists brownfields properties for sale. Web site operators may have to strike a balance in defining
minimum information items for their systems.
1.2 OBJECTIVES FOR WEB SITES THAT INCLUDE BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Recognizing the broad range of interests of potential users of web sites including brownfields
information, current initiatives underway to assemble information about brownfields properties and the
Appendix E-l Sample Functional Requirements Document
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
potential large volume of information to be managed about properties, the following objectives should be
considered in the design of web sites that include information about brownfields properties:
1. The web sites should allow the public easy access to information about the properties
listed.
2. The web sites should integrate data that already have been collected about the properties
listed.
3. The web sites should provide direct links to other sources of information, including
independent databases.
4. The web sites should be designed to minimize the amount of time required for the
management and updating of data and operation of the system.
2.0 OVERVIEW OF WEB SITE OPERATING SYSTEMS
The primary function of a web site should be to allow users to easily search a database of brownfields
properties. The secondary function of a web site should be to allow users to add or update the records in
the database. This is an important function for brownfields properties because; (1) the Brownfields
Program continues to grow and new properties are constantly being added to the program, (2) properties
need to be removed from the data base because they are sold or for other reasons, (3) new information to
characterize contamination is being obtained as properties move through the site assessment process, and
(4) property owners continue to receive new incentives to redevelop their properties and information
about these incentives should be communicated to potential purchasers. Other functions that potentially
could increase the utility of a web site are:
Automatic e-mail notification of registered users when new properties are added to the
database
Monitoring the use of the system for administrative purposes
Automatic warning to data providers by e-mail when property listings expire or when
status updates are needed
Automatic expiration of outdated property listings
Appendix E-2 Sample Functional Requirements Document
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
2.1 SYSTEM PLATFORM AND INTERFACE
A web site of brownfields properties should be accessible to anyone who can log onto the World Wide
Web using a standard browser that is version 4.0 or higher. The inventory of brownfields properties
should be maintained in a relational database, such as Oracle. A combination of standard HTML and a
scripting language for web application, such as Cold Fusion of MS Server Pages, should be considered in
developing the web page interfaces.
2.2 WEB SITE LAYOUT AND DESIGN
The following diagram shows the relationships between the pages that are included in the optional web
site design EPA prepared.
Figure 1. Web Site Diagram
Main Window
Web Site Introduction -
Description
Search Page
(search for Brownfields properties)
Registration Page
(optional user registration page -
set up automatic e-mail notification or
provide comments)
Related Web Sites
(links to related web sites)
Data Providers
(instructions for data providers)
Search Results
(Each record displayed
in a one line tabular
format)
Details Window
(separate pop-up window showing detailed
information about an individual property)
Property Information
(name, location, owner)
Property Description
Tax & Deed Information
Transportation & Utilities
Environment
Incentives & Market
Information
Appendix
E-3
Sample Functional Requirements Document
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
2.3 HOME PAGE
The home page is the first page that users see. The home page captures the attention of users, including
potential buyers and sellers of brownfields properties, cleanup contractors, and other service providers.
To provide visual continuity between all pages, a banner graphic should appear at the top of each page,
and load quickly. The remaining space on the home page screen could be filled with introductory text
and hypertext links to other parts of the web site. The home page may include success stories and
discussions of recent sales of brownfields properties. The page may show statistics, such as the total
number of properties currently in the database and the number of new properties added during the past
month.
The home page from EPA's optional design has several hypertext links, with the following purposes:
The "find brownfields " button links to the main search page, where the user can build a
query and find specific brownfields properties.
The "related links" button takes the user to a list of related web sites. At a minimum, the
list could include links to web sites that belong to organizations that will add property
listings to the brownfields property web site.
The "register" button links to a registration page. Registration can be optional.
Registered users will have the advantage of receiving e-mail updates when new
properties are added to the database or information about properties already listed is
modified.
The "data providers" button links to a web page where, after logging in, the user could
add listings or update records they provided earlier.
The "feedback" button provides an electronic mail connection to the Webmaster and
allow users to send questions when they have trouble using the site.
The "help" link can provide simple instructions for using the web page. This link should
be available on all screens and include a list of frequently asked questions and answers.
Additionally the link could provide basic definitions of terminology used throughout the
site and information on creating an account, as well as basic contact information.
2.4 FIND PROPERTIES FUNCTION
The process of building a search should be simple and straightforward. The users should have the ability
to select search criteria from pick lists. Search criteria include property location (city or county, state and
Zip code), size of property, ownership, zoning, available development incentives, and status of
Appendix E-4 Sample Functional Requirements Document
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
environmental investigations. The search function should default to a logic, such as Boolean, requiring
that search results match all the selected criteria (that is, criterion 1 AND criterion 2 AND criterion 3...).
The only exception might occur when the user selects more than one incentive as criteria. The search
function should find all sites that meet one or more of the incentives selected (that is, incentive 1 OR
incentive 2...).
For the EPA optional design, when a user initiates a database search by clicking the Submit button (see
Figure 2), the next web page display lists all properties that satisfy the user's criteria (see Figure 3).
Properties are listed in a tabular format, with separate columns for such essential data elements as state,
Figure 2. Mockup of a Search Page
' CommenLon
' !MfJl££tilli:
Search for brownfields properties by specifying the criteria below. Click the Submit button to start the
search. If you wish to change a criterion you have selected, press the Reset button to start over again.
[Note: Since this web site is only a mock-up of an optional design, the form below is not functional. Clicking the "Submit"
button beloi/tf will bring up a list of mock search results.}
City
County
State
Zip code
Site Size
to
| acres J
Investigatjonjjtatiis'
jln Process ;|
Zoning '
^ Industrial
^ Commercial
r Residential
r Retail
f" Mixed Use
<" Other
Submit
*
Ownership: ] Public _^J
RemediationStatus'
j In Process *]
Incentives *
r Local
r State
f~ Federal
i"" Loans
r Tax Relief
F Grants
r Bonds
I" Voluntary Cleanup Program
r Comfort Letter
Appendix
E-5
Sample Functional Requirements Document
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Figure 3 Mockup of a Summary Search Results Page
I iBt«* WBIB found that match your u-arch crrtcrlj.
Click an a column hnding to Krt Ihr
Ratal,
Fedenl
in
"
Zip code, county, acreage, environmental status, and development incentives. The default sort order of
the tabular list is ascending, by city and then by Zip code for cities that have a number of Zip codes. The
user can click on any column heading to sort the list by that column. To reduce loading time for each
page, the list is displayed in increments of 30 records per page. Each property is assigned a unique record
number to assist users in searching for information. The record numbers are assigned sequentially as new
properties are listed.
The user can view detailed information about any of the brownfields properties shown in the summary
list. When the user clicks on a property record number in the summary list, an overview of the property
appears in a separate pop-up window (see Figure 4). To compare properties side by side, the user can
open additional windows to facilitate side-by-side comparison of properties.
The overview of the property may include a direct link to another web site or another database that
provides more detailed information about the property. Links to other sources of information can be
accomplished through two programming methods. The simplest method is to provide a link to the home
page of a data provider. In that case, it may be necessary that the user run another search to find the
Appendix
E-6
Sample Functional Requirements Document
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Figure 4. Mockup of the Detailed Property Information Page
^ I Tax Information | History Transportation
Market Information | Utilities | Environment | Remediation | Photo
Detailed Information for Property # 0472
[Note: This page is a mock-up of an option a) design. The information presented here is fictional and for display
purposes only.]
Location
3501Tilden Rd
House NY,16834
Property
Property
Name:
Area: 5 fjOO square feel
Ownership:
Available Federal, VCP
Incentives;
contact joe Smith
Name:
contact (9Q7)-555-8541
Phone:
For more
detail
about this
property,
go to:
Tax Information
Tax parcel number XXXXXXX
GO:
Are property taxes Yes
current?
Date taxes last paid: Q8/Q1 /1 998
Any easements in |\JQ
effect?
Is a copy of tfie titie |\]Q
insurance policy
available?
Property History
What year was the 1 974
property first
improved?
Has property use or '','8:5
ownership changed?
Assessed Value
Owner
Currently Zoned
Investigation Status
Remediation
Necessary?
Remediation Status
Contact Email
Contact Fax
Photo
S900K
City of House
Commercial
Complete
Complete
(307)-555-8302
Amount of annual | XX
property taxes:
Amount owed: JO.00
Any liens or judgements [\|Q
in effect?
Any land use or deed [S|Q
restriction in effect?
Any land use or deed [\jn
restriction in effect?
How many years has the 24
property been in
operation?
Years
1974-1982
1982-1990
1990-1998
1998-current
Owner name
Mr. Smith
Mr. Jones
Ms. Johnson
City of House
Type of use
Commercial
Commercial
Commercial
Commercial
Appendix
E-7
Sample Functional Requirements Document
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Figure 4. (continued)
Transportation
Traffic study Yes
completed?
Public transportation: On property
Airport access: J j-fij
Market Information
Is a zoning change ['Jn
required?
Has a development YeS
plan been completed?
What is the highest C 0 ITl m 8 re i a I
and best end use?
Utilities
Public water; Nearby and easy to
extend
Electricity: On property
Environment
Wetlands: No
Endangered species |\|o
present:
Located within 100- \\\Q
year flood plain:
What is the highest and Commercial
best end use?
Remediation studies and status
Phase I-ESA fASTM Yes
1527-971 completed?
Copies of reports Yes
available?
Is remediation in [\]g
progress?
What lists is the NPL, RCRA
property found on?
Location | Property | Tax Information | Histot
Market Information Utilities Environment
Interstate access: On property
Water-front access: Qn property
Rail! 17mi.
Has a developer been No
identified?
Has a market study been Y6S
completed?
Transfer options Owner Wants to Sell
available:
Public sewer: On property
Gas: Not jn area
Sensitive ecosystem or No
habitat present:
Historic or archaeological No
prapertys present:
Located within 500-year
flood plain:
Phase II or subsequent Ygg
investigation completed?
Is property entered in a [\jg
State Voluntary Cleanup
Program"?
Is regulatory sjgm-uf^ Ygg
completed for this
property?
Has the property ever [\Jg
been in litigaton?
£ I Transportation
Remediation |
Close
Appendix
E-8
Sample Functional Requirements Document
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
information described. The second method is to link directly into the database of the data provider. The
user would have immediate access to all available information; and no additional searching would be
necessary. The second method has obvious advantages for the user, but it is much more complicated
from a programming perspective. The method requires a high level of cooperation between the operators
of a web site of brownfields properties and data providers. In many cases, technical obstacles may make
the second method impractical. The overview of the property also may include a direct link to reports and
studies about the property that are available electronically, or provide information on where these reports
and studies can be found.
2.5 REGISTRATION FUNCTION AND AUTOMATIC E-MAIL NOTIFICATION
One step to increase user interest in a brownfields property web site is to provide the capability for users
to receive e-mail notifications when new properties are added to the database. This feature of the web site
could be made available to users who choose to register by entering contact information (name,
organization, and e-mail address). The e-mail notification process should be automated. When a new
web site is launched, users may be discouraged from returning to the site if the initial number of
properties listed is small. The e-mail function will help to recapture users as new data are added to the
database. After the number of listings increases significantly, the e-mail notification function can be
modified to notify users about new listings of properties that meet specific parameters identified by the
user. For example, the user could be notified only if a property added to the database has characteristics
that match the search criteria previously established by the user.
2.6 DATA PROVIDERS (ADD/UPDATE RECORDS)
To add properties to the database, data providers could be provided with options. The number and types
of options should be dependent upon the potential number of data providers, whether the database will be
local, state, regional, or national, and the extent of quality control of the data. For example, the following
options might be appropriate for a state or national database:
1. Use a web-based data entry form. The data provider simply fills out the form on the web
page. The data are added to the database when the user clicks an "Update" button at the
bottom of the screen.
2. Download a copy of the web site's data structure in an MS Access format. A simple user
guide (one or two pages) providing technical guidelines for either a novice user or a
Appendix E-9 Sample Functional Requirements Document
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
database specialist could be prepared and made available for downloading along with the
MS Access database. After all data have been transferred into the MS Access database,
the data provider sends the MS Access database back to the operator of the web site by e-
mail or file transfer protocol (FTP). The option allows the data provider to complete the
file when convenient and to generate their own copy of the information provided.
3. Submit large volumes of data in digital format, such as MS Access or ASCII comma
delimited. The data could then be imported into the database for the web site.
To help ensure data quality and security, each data provider should be given a password, automatically
generated by the system. Data providers must use their passwords to gain access to their records. Use of
a password ensures that unauthorized persons will not be able to alter information about properties. At
any time, data providers should be able to return to the web site to modify or update the information they
have submitted. Data providers should be required to return to the site on a routine basis, such as, at least
once every six months to keep records current. The status of a record could be listed as "Active,"
"Inactive," or "Sold." Active sites could be those sites that currently are for sale. Inactive sites could be
sites that have been or may become available for sale, but currently are not for sale. Sold sites could be
sites that have been sold and are no longer available to purchase. Data providers should be free to change
the status at anytime.
2.7 WEB SITE ADMINISTRATION
A web site should include a web page that can be used for administration purposes and not accessible to
the public. It should be accessible only to approved administrators who need instant access to
information about the performance of the web site. Access to the administrative page can be controlled
through a login screen.
Use of a web site should be logged to gain a better understanding of how users might benefit from a
brownfields property web site. System administrators could use the record of user activity to identify
functional areas that require improvement. An administrative web page could include the following
features:
A summary of the system use logs,
Functions for adding, deleting, and updating all records
Functions for controlling e-mail notifications to registered users and data providers
Appendix E-10 Sample Functional Requirements Document
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
3.0 DATA DESCRIPTION AND ORGANIZATION
This section describes the data structure of the web site design prepared by EPA and procedures for
managing data and maintaining a web site.
3.1 DATA STRUCTURE
An Oracle database could be structured to make the best possible use of other potential sources of data,
such as the New Jersey Brownfield Site Marketing Inventory and Pennsylvania's Land Recycling
Program.
Table 1 shows those suggested fields that should be completed to list a property in the system. Of the 13
data elements shown in the table, 10 can be used as search criteria.
Table 1
Suggested Data Elements That Should Be Listed for Each Site
Field Name
1 . Site Location
*6. Site Size
*7. Ownership
*8. Proposed
Zoning
*9. Status of Site
Investigation
Detail
Street name or route number of nearest
highway
*2. City
*3. County
*4. State
*5. Zip code
Acreage
or
Square feet
public
private
industrial
commercial
residential
retail
mixed use
other
in process
complete
Definition
Name of street on which the property is located, or
for remote locations, the name or route number of
the nearest highway.
Name of the city in which the property is located.
Name of the county in which the property is located.
Name of the state in which the property is located.
Five- or nine-digit Zip code in which the property is
located.
Total area that is available for redevelopment at the
site.
Indicates whether the owner of the property is a
public or private entity.
When a master plan for redevelopment has been
approved for the area in which the property is
located, indicate the proposed zoning for the
property. When no master plan has been approved,
enter the likeliest option for zoning of the area.
Indicate the current status of studies to characterize
the level and types of contaminants at the property.
Appendix
E-ll
Sample Functional Requirements Document
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
Field Name
*10. Status of
Remediation
* 1 1 . Redevelopment
incentives
12. Site Contact
Name
13. Site Contact
Phone Number
Detail
in process
complete
local
federal
loans
tax relief
grants
bonds
VCP
comfort letter
First name
Last name
Telephone number
Definition
Indicate the current status of activities to clean up
contaminants at the property that must be treated or
removed before redevelopment can begin.
Indicate the local government, state, and federal
incentives that have been approved or are available
to encourage redevelopment of the site.
Name of person who can provide additional
information about the site.
Telephone number of contact person
* Searchable information
3.2
DATA MANAGEMENT AND SITE MAINTENANCE
Web sites that include information about brownfields properties should be designed in a manner that will
minimize the time required for data management and site maintenance. A routine schedule of data
management tasks is necessary to insure that the database remains current. Outdated records must be
deleted, and new sites must be added to the database. Insofar as possible, the data management process
should be automated. Outdated records should expire automatically after a reasonable time period, such
as three months. Each quarter, automatic e-mail notifications should be used to warn data providers that
their records are about to expire. After receiving e-mail notification, the data provider should be required
to return to the web site to delete outdated records and to renew records that should remain active.
Although automation will reduce the time required for data maintenance, database specialists may be
required to validate new records and to perform certain data conversion or manipulation tasks. The
database is not likely to grow quickly if users are required to enter all new records one at a time, using the
web page data entry form. Therefore, if the user has more than 20 new sites to add to the database, the
user should have the option of providing data to the system operator in an MS Access data structure that
can be downloaded from the brownfields property web site. The user can update the MS Access database
by manually entering records on predesigned forms. As an alternative, the user could update the database
using standard functions of MS Access. The updated MS Access database could be sent to the system
operator through e-mail or FTP. Database specialists for the system operator could import the new data
Appendix
E-12
Sample Functional Requirements Document
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STATUS REPORT:
INITIATIVES TO DEVELOP WEB SITES INCLUDING INFORMATION
ABOUT BROWNFIELDS PROPERTIES
into an Oracle database. If the user has more than 100 new sites to add to the database, the user can
provide the system operator with a data dump in any digital format, including MS Access, MS Excel,
Oracle, or delimited text files. Database specialists could then convert the data into a usable format and
import the data into the database.
Table 2 presents a sample data update cycle. The data maintenance cycle is the time elapsed from the
date on which the brownfields property web site receives the data and the date on which the data become
"Active" in the database. Only "active" records should be visible to users.
Table 2
Sample Data Maintenance Cycle
Method of Data
Capture
Data
Update
Cycle
Advantages
Limitations
Web-based data
entry form.
1 week
Anyone who has access to the
Internet can add new properties to
the database. Data entered are
posted to the database immediately.
The process of entering information can
be slow and time-consuming, particularly
when the user is adding a large number
of records. Although data are posted to
the database immediately, the data must
be reviewed before the listing becomes
active and is made available to the
public.
MS Access
(downloaded from
web site)
3 weeks
Large amounts of data can be
imported into MS Access through
standard data manipulation
techniques. The process is less
time-consuming than entering data
through a web-based form.
Novice computer users may not prefer
this option. A user who has only one or
two new properties may prefer to use the
web-based form rather than MS Access.
Data dump
3 months
Data providers are not required to
perform any data entry. The
process will allow the transfer of
large amounts of data.
The process of importing data may be
labor-intensive for the system operator.
The process is beneficial and cost-
effective only if the data dump includes a
large number of properties.
Appendix
E-13
Sample Functional Requirements Document
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&EPA
EPA542-R-01-017
October 2001
Status Report:
Initiatives to Develop Web Sites Including Information
About Brownfields Properties
------- |