Press Releases

LOWELL, MA – Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) was joined by Lawrence leaders to celebrate $1 million in federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding secured to clean up three separate brownfield sites in Lawrence. Following the clean-up, the City will be able to repurpose the sites for economic development and recreational purposes.

“Once again, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is delivering for Lawrence’s families, businesses, and economy by finally repurposing contaminated sites for recreational and economic development projects. I’m proud that this federal funding from the EPA will develop Bennington Triangle into a formal park, revitalize abandoned lots along Florence Street and expand Bourgoin Park.” said Congresswoman Trahan. “Lawrence has continued to punch above their weight in securing federal infrastructure funds because of the successful coordination and tireless efforts of local officials. After visiting today’s sites, I cannot wait to see how much the city and the region will benefit from these projects.”

“The City of Lawrence derives strength from the steadfast support of our Federal Delegation, specifically Congresswoman Lori Trahan, who took the time to see firsthand our needs for brownfields improvements. This EPA Grant will allow for planning, site assessments, and cleanup all in one at multiple sites. By combining these steps, the Multipurpose Grant will help turn brownfield sites into valuable spaces, boosting the local economy and improving the environment and quality of life," said Lawrence Mayor Brian DePeña.

The $1 million federal investment for this project was awarded through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Brownfields Program, which distributes funding to support the identification, assessment, and clean-up of contaminated sites that can be redeveloped to benefit communities. A longtime proponent of the Brownfields Program, Trahan voted in 2021 to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which invested an additional $1.5 billion in funding to support brownfield projects across the nation.

"Brownfields grants are gamechangers—they turn polluted, abandoned sites into thriving community spaces. This isn't just about cleaning up the environment; it's about revitalizing neighborhoods, creating good jobs, and ensuring healthier living for everyone—it's a win-win-win-win-win-win," said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "This additional funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is helping to transform contaminated properties into valuable community assets, making a real difference for Massachusetts families, especially in the areas that need it most."

Trahan has continuously partnered with local officials to secure Lawrence federal funding for environmental cleanups. In 2022, the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission's (MVPC) worked with the City to inventory to identify at least nine priority brownfields sites within Lawrence. Of these nine sites, three will be redeveloped using the $1 million award highlighted today: 

1. Bennington Triangle: A vacant, undeveloped triangular shaped parcel of less than an acre that currently serves as an informal park. After thorough community engagement to assess what amenities and facilities the park should include, the City has decided to redevelop the lot into a small formal park with shade, landscaping, and domino tables where community members can gather. 
2. Florence Street Garage: Four sites located along Florence Street totaling 0.6 acres and containing a vacant 10,360 square foot former auto repair business. The City intends to complete the supplemental assessment and cleanup of the site and market the property for workforce, housing, or to support the nearby rail trail.
3. Anchor Auto: A 1.5-acre parcel of land located where Anchor Auto junkyard previously operated, also along Florence Street. The site abuts the rail trail corridor and is intended to be acquired by the City to establish a neighborhood connection to the rail trail and expand Bourgoin Park to increase the size of the park’s soccer field.

“This is about reclaiming and revitalizing spaces that belong to the people of Lawrence. With this $1 million grant, we’re turning neglected areas like the Bennington Triangle and Florence Street into thriving community hubs where our children can play, our families can connect, and our neighborhoods can flourish,” said State Senator Pavel Payano.“This effort is about more than just environmental cleanup; it’s about building a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant future for Lawrence. I’m proud to be part of this transformative work that will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.”

“This critical funding will allow the City of Lawrence to continue its efforts to reinvigorate blighted properties within our community, so that we may utilize every asset available to us to expand workforce development, increase access to housing, and more,” said Second Assistant Majority Leader Frank A. Moran. “I am incredibly grateful for Congresswoman Trahan’s continued advocacy on behalf of Lawrence and look forward to seeing these funds put to use very soon.” 

"The City of Lawrence is more than deserving of funding towards redeveloping public spaces. Cleaning up these three sites not only protects our environment, it in turn supports the health and wellness of those in the surrounding community, and provides economic development opportunities. I want to thank Congresswoman Trahan for her continued advocacy on behalf of our city, and ensuring we feel those results” said State Representative Estela A. Reyes.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has delivered historic investments in communities across the Commonwealth. As of June 2024, $7.5 billion in federal infrastructure funding has been announced to support 346 projects. In 2022, the City of Lawrence was among the first in the nation to benefit from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Clean School Bus Program, receiving $10 million to replace 25 diesel-powered school buses with new, clean buses. Additionally, Trahan secured $2 million in federal funding earlier this year to advance the repair of the Mario Lucchesi Memorial Bridge in Lawrence.

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