Brownfield Redevelopment: The Landings

Benge Development Corporation was founded in 1993 with the purchase of their first master-planned development. Since then, they’ve identified, purchased and developed 18 major projects throughout Florida. Benge has a fully integrated approach to development that includes all necessary entitlements, site analysis, economic viability study, engineering, and full horizontal site improvements. Specialties include large-scale 55+ retirement communities, assisted living, memory care, and regional mixed use power centers.

CLIENT INFORMATION

PROJECT INFORMATION

OPPORTUNITY

Assist client in the establishment of Brownfield Area as a component part of redevelopment activities. Brownfield sites include the former Vigoro/Spectrum Brands fertilizer plant and the City of Winter Haven Chain-of-Lakes Complex. Redevelopment is slated to include a lakefront park, marina, splash park, and boardwalk with shopping, dining & hotel establishments. The project is a centerpiece in the revitalization of the established Community Redevelopment Area of the City of Winter Haven.

SOLUTION

  • Coordinate designation of Brownfield Area.
  • Coordinate and review BSRA (Brownfield Site Rehabilitation Agreement).
  • Perform Pre-Demolition Asbestos Surveys and monitor asbestos abatement activities.
  • Perform Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments.
  • Conduct assessments and remediation at impacted sites (per Rule 62-780, Florida Administrative Code); contaminants include pesticides and inorganic compounds.
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SUCCESS

Benefits specific to designation of the site as a Brownfields Area include:

  • $2,500 job bonus refund for each new job created.
  • Sales Tax Credit on building materials purchased.
  • Minimum 50% state loan guarantees.
  • 50% Voluntary Cleanup Tax Credit (VCTC) annually on all eligible costs.