What is the BOA program?

• The BOA grant program was created by the NYS Brownfield Law in 2003 and can fund 90% of costs for eligible planning and assessment activities in areas that have multiple brownfields.  Eligible applicants are municipalities and community-based organizations.
• The BOA grant program funds Pre-Nomination Studies, Nomination Studies, and Implementation Strategies including Site Assessments. Examples of eligible activities can be found here.
• More information and application materials are available from the NYS Department of State and Department of Environmental Conservation

Why should I contact the City about a BOA application?

• The state has a preference for applications that are submitted by a partnership of a municipality and an eligible community-based organization (CBO.)  Consult the state guidance regarding eligibility criteria for CBOs.
• If your CBO plans to submit an application in which you are not partnered with the City, the state requires that you request a letter of support from the City.

When should a CBO approach the City about a BOA application?

• As soon as possible.  The earlier you approach the City, the more focused our consideration of your request can be, and the sooner we can get back to you.  Note that the state’s application deadline is May 26, 2006.   Requests submitted to the City after April 24th will be considered at the discretion of the NYC Office of Environmental Coordination.

Whom in NYC should a CBO approach about a partnered BOA application or a letter of support?

• Use this request form to submit information about your proposal and a request for partnership or a letter of support to the Office of Environmental Coordination.
• OEC will consult with other City agencies working in the proposed BOA location to discuss partnership with CBOs or support of CBO proposals. We will get back to you as soon as possible after these consultations.

What are the City’s criteria for potential partner organizations?

The BOA program is a new initiative, and our criteria for partners are neither rigid nor finalized. However, these are our initial thoughts on what we seek in partner organizations:

• Track record of success with planning or development projects
• Financial and organizational stability
• Commitment to neighborhood revitalization
• Experience working with public agencies
• Good relationships with community organizations and elected officials
• A viable proposal that is aligned with the City’s development goals and planning priorities

What is the BOA process’s relationship to 197-A plans?
There is no formal relationship between BOAs and 197-A plans.

How will the City handle multiple applications in the same geographic area?
Organizations proposing to work in similar areas will be encouraged to work together.

Contact Ms. Lee Ilan, Senior Environmental Planner
NYC Office of Environmental Coordination
Phone: (212) 788-2929
Fax: (212) 788-2941