What is one of the major hindrances to brownfield redevelopment?

One major hindrance to brownfield redevelopment is indeed associated with liability protection for owners and operators. In many cases, potential developers may be deterred from investing in brownfield sites due to fears of legal liability for contamination. Even if they did not cause the pollution, they may worry about being held responsible for the cleanup costs or facing lawsuits from neighboring property owners or the government. This liability concern creates a significant barrier to redevelopment, as it raises the perceived risk and financial exposure associated with such projects.

In contrast, while high costs of redevelopment, lack of community interest, and insufficient funding from the government can all pose challenges, they are generally considered secondary to the overarching issue of legal liability. The fear of liability can overshadow other considerations and make potential investors cautious, ultimately hindering progress in redeveloping brownfield sites. Without robust liability protections, many developers may choose to avoid these properties altogether, limiting opportunities for revitalization and community development.