We examine the spatial and socioeconomic characteristics of a sub-set of brownfields, represented by sites removed from the CERCLIS (Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Information System), or Superfund, inventory. The study area (six Northeastern US states) has a mix of manufacturing, farming and recreational activities, and is densely populated. Environmental concerns, including urban sprawl, are growing. A spatial econometric approach is used. Contrary to expectation, brownfields are not located predominantly in minority-dominated urban core areas, at least in the study area and as far as delisted CERCLIS sites are concerned. Instead, there is a higher incidence of such sites in urban fringe and low-income areas, regardless of racial composition. An implication is that existing remediation activities must be expanded to include areas not currently targeted by policy makers. Such areas should include, for example, not just urban core areas but also those facing urbanization pressures, whether or not they have traditionally been considered urban. The results should be useful in policy formulation in the study area and in other areas where local environmental quality is closely linked to land use decisions, and contribute to more sustainable land use.