For example, land that will be used for an industrial facility will not have to be cleaned up as much as land that will be used for homes. EPA has coordinated over 115 brownfields pilot projects in cities across the country, including Cleveland. Access the Great Lake Information Network s Brownfields in the Great Lakes Region Homepage for regional brownfields information. Access US EPA s Brownfields Homepage for information on Federal brownfields programs. Full mailing addresses and phone numbers of organizations listed on this factsheet are available in this Guide's Directory of Organizations .
Vacant lots abound in and around Cleveland.
Vacant lots can be a problem for some communities because they represent lost economic opportunities and can spoil the beauty of neighborhoods, attract illegal dumpers, trash, and rodents. But vacant lots can also benefit a community by providing open space for children or community gardens. Talk to your neighbors, neighborhood association, church group, or school about organizing formal or informal litter pickups. Community gardens are public gardens set up in vacant lots, city parks, or empty fields. Community gardens work to improve the quality of life in urban communities by beautifying neighborhoods, providing recreational opportunities and open space, and providing opportunities for residents to grow their own food.