The Link gets $200,000 grant to restore land for development

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - The Link in Rhode Island is receiving a $200,000 grant from the federal government to restore land next to Johnson & Wales University’s new construction.

Officials say the land, known as Parcel 30 has been contaminated since the 1950s when it was occupied by residences, stores, and a jewelry manufacturer.

I-195 Commission Chairman Joe Azrack tells the Providence Journal the Environmental Protection Agency’s Brownfields Grant will be used for reversing environmental damage and preparing the parcel for development and capping.

A soil analysis and investigation concluded the property was contaminated with volatile organic compounds.

Brownfields are properties where expansion or redevelopment is complicated by the likely presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant or contaminant.