Creating Better And More Affordable Places To Live, Work And Raise Families
Senator Dodd’s Livable Communities Act will help local communities plan for and create better and more affordable places to live, work, and raise families. With sustainable development, our communities will cut traffic congestion; reduce greenhouse gas emissions and gasoline consumption; protect rural areas and green spaces; revitalize existing Main Streets and urban centers; and create more affordable housing.
FUNDS REGIONAL PLANNING TO MAKE OUR COMMUNITIES MORE LIVABLE
Incentives To Plan For Livable Communities. The Comprehensive Planning Grant Program will help communities develop comprehensive regional plans that incorporate transportation, housing, community and economic development, and environmental needs. Grantees must demonstrate a commitment to integrated planning and sustainable development. The Act authorizes $400 million in competitive grants over four years.
Funding to Implement Sustainable Development Projects. The Challenge Grant Program will enable communities to implement cross-cutting projects according to their comprehensive regional plans. With $3.75 billion authorized for competitive grants over three years, these projects will help communities create and preserve affordable housing; support transit-oriented development; improve public transportation; create pedestrian and bicycle thoroughfares; redevelop brownfields; and foster economic development.
Partnering with Local Communities. The legislation ensures that the federal government is a supportive partner for communities’ sustainable development efforts, offering technical assistance to regions that apply for Livable Communities grants and giving special assistance to smaller communities that may need additional help to get started. As a resource for sustainability best practices and technical assistance, the Office of Sustainable Housing and Communities will ensure that communities learn from each other’s successes.
ELIMINATES BARRIERS TO FEDERAL AGENCIES WORKING TOGETHER TO FACILITATE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Interagency Council on Sustainable Communities. By bringing together the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Department of Transportation, the Environmental Protection Agency, and other federal agencies, the Interagency Council on Sustainable Communities will coordinate federal sustainable development policies; coordinate federal sustainability research; coordinate with HUD to implement Livable Communities grants; identify barriers to sustainable development; and promote coordination of transportation, housing, community development, energy, and environmental policies.
Office of Sustainable Housing And Communities. The Department of Housing and Urban Development will establish the Office of Sustainable Housing and Communities to coordinate federal policies that foster sustainable development and administer HUD’s sustainability initiatives; recommend and conduct research; implement and oversee Livable Communities grant programs in coordination with the Interagency Council; and provide guidance, best practices and technical assistance to communities seeking to plan for the future.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Liveable Communities Act -- What People Are Saying
Here’s What People Are Saying About Dodd’s Livable Communities Act:
Senator Dodd’s proposed Livable Communities Act represents a major step forward for the federal government and its contribution to the economic health of vibrant communities and urban centers. The bill recognizes the relationship between housing, transportation and environmental performance - a relationship that is essential to the nation’s long-term economic prosperity.
--JOHN DESTEFANO, JR., Mayor, City of New Haven, Connecticut
Senator Dodd's Livable Communities Act is manna from heaven. It finally marries smart housing, transit and environmental policy in an enlightened way by allowing localities and regions to plan affordable homes for workers near transit. Local control is vital and homes near transit will increase affordability and reduce congestion and pollution. When the story of smart 21st Century community development is written, Senator Dodd and this bill will be the stars of the drama.
-- DAVID FINK, Policy Director, Partnership for Strong Communities
The Partnership for Strong Communities raises public awareness and advances solutions to end chronic homelessness, creates affordable housing and builds healthy, economically vital communities in Connecticut.
I am delighted that Senator Dodd’s initiative builds on the work of the Capitol Region Council of Governments. By forming a nexus between efficient transit systems and responsible zoning, the Livable Communities Act effectively promotes citizens’ quality of life while combating harmful carbon emissions. The bill Senator Dodd has introduced is exactly what we need to build better communities.
--LYLE WRAY, Executive Director, Capitol Region Council of Governments
CRCOG assists citizens and local officials of the 29 communities of Connecticut’s capital region in articulating, advocating and implementing the vision, needs and values of their regional community.
Demographic and market research shows that Americans are increasingly clamoring for more walkable, bikeable and sustainable communities that offer them cleaner and healthier options to get around. Senator Dodd’s bill is a forward-looking approach that will give metropolitan regions the tools they need to meet this growing demand and prepare our cities, towns and communities for the 21st century. The bill follows a proven model to create jobs and build more energy-independent, economically competitive, attractive and healthy places to live while saving money over the long term.
--GEOFF ANDERSON, President, Smart Growth America
Smart Growth America is a coalition focused on preservation, the environment and neighborhood revitalization to improve the ways we plan and build the towns, cities and metro areas we call home.
Today's announcement is a welcome one in the planning community and a sign that better living through smart community planning and development around cleaner transportation options is, and should be, achievable around the country. We congratulate Senator Dodd in this bold step and look forward to working with him to advance the goals of this important piece of legislation.
-- ROBERT YARO, President, Regional Plan Association
Regional Plan Association is dedicated to improving the quality of life and the economic competitiveness of the 31-county New York-New Jersey-Connecticut region through research, planning, and advocacy.
“NLC applauds Senator Dodd’s leadership in integrating land-use, housing and transportation planning among all levels of government. The Livable Communities Act would strengthen the intergovernmental partnership between federal, regional, and local leaders, helping all levels of government serve our nation’s neighborhoods and families more effectively.”
– DONALD J. BORUT, Executive Director, National League of Cities
“The nation’s counties strongly support Senator Dodd’s Living Communities bill. We commend the Senator for his leadership on this critical initiative which will result in a more efficient and sustainable use of federal and local housing, transportation, and environmental resources.”
-- LARRY E. NAAKE, Executive Director, National Association of Counties
Senator Dodd’s proposed Livable Communities Act represents a major step forward for the federal government and its contribution to the economic health of vibrant communities and urban centers. The bill recognizes the relationship between housing, transportation and environmental performance - a relationship that is essential to the nation’s long-term economic prosperity.
--JOHN DESTEFANO, JR., Mayor, City of New Haven, Connecticut
Senator Dodd's Livable Communities Act is manna from heaven. It finally marries smart housing, transit and environmental policy in an enlightened way by allowing localities and regions to plan affordable homes for workers near transit. Local control is vital and homes near transit will increase affordability and reduce congestion and pollution. When the story of smart 21st Century community development is written, Senator Dodd and this bill will be the stars of the drama.
-- DAVID FINK, Policy Director, Partnership for Strong Communities
The Partnership for Strong Communities raises public awareness and advances solutions to end chronic homelessness, creates affordable housing and builds healthy, economically vital communities in Connecticut.
I am delighted that Senator Dodd’s initiative builds on the work of the Capitol Region Council of Governments. By forming a nexus between efficient transit systems and responsible zoning, the Livable Communities Act effectively promotes citizens’ quality of life while combating harmful carbon emissions. The bill Senator Dodd has introduced is exactly what we need to build better communities.
--LYLE WRAY, Executive Director, Capitol Region Council of Governments
CRCOG assists citizens and local officials of the 29 communities of Connecticut’s capital region in articulating, advocating and implementing the vision, needs and values of their regional community.
Demographic and market research shows that Americans are increasingly clamoring for more walkable, bikeable and sustainable communities that offer them cleaner and healthier options to get around. Senator Dodd’s bill is a forward-looking approach that will give metropolitan regions the tools they need to meet this growing demand and prepare our cities, towns and communities for the 21st century. The bill follows a proven model to create jobs and build more energy-independent, economically competitive, attractive and healthy places to live while saving money over the long term.
--GEOFF ANDERSON, President, Smart Growth America
Smart Growth America is a coalition focused on preservation, the environment and neighborhood revitalization to improve the ways we plan and build the towns, cities and metro areas we call home.
Today's announcement is a welcome one in the planning community and a sign that better living through smart community planning and development around cleaner transportation options is, and should be, achievable around the country. We congratulate Senator Dodd in this bold step and look forward to working with him to advance the goals of this important piece of legislation.
-- ROBERT YARO, President, Regional Plan Association
Regional Plan Association is dedicated to improving the quality of life and the economic competitiveness of the 31-county New York-New Jersey-Connecticut region through research, planning, and advocacy.
“NLC applauds Senator Dodd’s leadership in integrating land-use, housing and transportation planning among all levels of government. The Livable Communities Act would strengthen the intergovernmental partnership between federal, regional, and local leaders, helping all levels of government serve our nation’s neighborhoods and families more effectively.”
– DONALD J. BORUT, Executive Director, National League of Cities
“The nation’s counties strongly support Senator Dodd’s Living Communities bill. We commend the Senator for his leadership on this critical initiative which will result in a more efficient and sustainable use of federal and local housing, transportation, and environmental resources.”
-- LARRY E. NAAKE, Executive Director, National Association of Counties
Monday, August 3, 2009
Survey for Urban Infill Research Study
This link will direct you to a brief online survey. This survey is part of a National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) study to develop guidance and a methodology for the preparation and review of transportation impact analyses (TIAs) of infill development in urban or urbanizing areas. You can help support this effort by answering a few brief questions.
Why this is important
Higher density, mixed-use redevelopment and infill development are smart growth concepts that are an increasingly common form of development subject to environmental review and often traffic impact studies. However, there is a lack of standardized guidance and trip and parking generation data for preparing these studies.
Why your help is needed
The first phase of this study involves collecting information on current infill development definitions, infill traffic and parking generation data and estimation methods, TIA analysis methods and agency review procedures. Kimley-Horn and Associates, on behalf of NCHRP, would like to survey those involved in various aspects of infill development in order to collect this information. Your responses are completely confidential and will be used to identify valuable information and resources regarding the current state-of-the-practice of analyzing the impacts of infill development.
Thank you for your time. Please click to complete the survey.
Why this is important
Higher density, mixed-use redevelopment and infill development are smart growth concepts that are an increasingly common form of development subject to environmental review and often traffic impact studies. However, there is a lack of standardized guidance and trip and parking generation data for preparing these studies.
Why your help is needed
The first phase of this study involves collecting information on current infill development definitions, infill traffic and parking generation data and estimation methods, TIA analysis methods and agency review procedures. Kimley-Horn and Associates, on behalf of NCHRP, would like to survey those involved in various aspects of infill development in order to collect this information. Your responses are completely confidential and will be used to identify valuable information and resources regarding the current state-of-the-practice of analyzing the impacts of infill development.
Thank you for your time. Please click to complete the survey.
Restoring Prosperity August 2009 Newsletter
Restoring Prosperity Report
To subscribe to the newsletter, contact Mara at Smart Growth America
State and National News
News from Smart Growth America's State Stimulus Campaign
June 29th marked the 120-day deadline for states to commit at least 50 percent ($13.3 billion) of the transportation funding available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). SGA's state stimulus campaign has released The States and the Stimulus: Are they using it to create jobs and 21st century transportation? (http://blog.smartgrowthamerica.org/2009/06/29/120-days-in-sga-reviews-the-stimulus-spending-on-transportation/). The report evaluates state project lists at this 120-day mark to determine how effective states have been in achieving the goals set forth by ARRA, as well as their success in creating jobs, building towards a 21st century transportation system, and making transparent and accountable spending decisions.
At the national level, the study identifies some discouraging trends:
? Despite a multi-trillion dollar backlog of road and bridge repairs, states committed almost a third of the ARRA Surface Transportation Program (STP) money to new capacity road and bridge projects rather than repair.
? Most states did not use ARRA funding to fill the giant backlog in public transportation investment.
? Overall, transparency of decisions is lacking, and accountability for results is weak.
However, the study also highlights some notable achievements at the state level: seven states are spending more than 10 percent of their funding on expanding public transportation, walking, and biking choices, and 17 states are spending more than 90 percent of funding on road repair. Read more about the report here [stimulus.smartgrowthamerica.org/20ways].
House Transportation Bill Released
Congressman James Oberstar, Chairman of the House Transportation Committee, released a draft of the House Surface Transportation Authorization Act of 2009 [http://t4america.org/pressers/2009/06/23/house-transportation-bill-lays-groundwork-for-reform-but-key-details-are-missing-significant-work-still-needed/]last week. Some of the basic principles for reform are present, but key details are still missing. Positive features of the bill include that it increases public transit funding, simplifies and streamlines federal transportation policy, increases local control, directs money towards repair and maintenance, and helps large metro areas meet their pressing transportation needs. Critical areas for improvement include the need for a greater focus on performance targets and accountability, incentives that would encourage states and localities to coordinate land use and development planning with transportation, and a greater focus on equity and affordability. The Obama administration has requested that the transportation authorization be tabled for 18 months, but Congressman Oberstar has voiced his desire to move forward with the bill. To track the legislation's progress, visit the Transportation for America blog [http://www.t4america.org/blog].
Congresswoman Schwartz (PA) Introduces Green Communities Act
In April, Representative Allyson Schwartz (PA-13) introduced the Green Communities Act (HR 2222) [http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=111_cong_bills&docid=f:h2222ih.txt.pdf], which would give grants to municipalities for community greening initiatives. This act [http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d111:h.r.02222:] would provide funds for eighty municipalities to encourage revitalization of parks and other public spaces, landscape community areas, plant trees and participate in other urban forestry projects, preserve open space, construct green roofs, create green stormwater infrastructure, manage vacant lots, and educate the community on these green initiatives. Projects funded through this bill could improve neighborhoods, increase real estate values, encourage commercial development, and reduce violence and crime. The program would extend for five years ? fiscal years 2010-2014 ? and provide a total of $270 million in funding for these initiatives to improve neighborhoods. Advocates are seeking cosponsors for the bill now. For more information, contact Greg Lewis [glewis@nemw.org] at the Northeast-Midwest Institute [http://www.nemw.org/].
Middle Class Task Force Announced
On May 26th, a new interagency partnership called the Middle Class Task Force [http://www.whitehouse.gov/strongmiddleclass/] was announced [http://www.hud.gov/news/release.cfm?content=pr09-074.cfm]. The task force is "a major initiative targeted at raising the living standards of middle-class, working families in America." It is chaired by Vice President Biden, and includes representatives from several executive agencies: Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, Treasury, Commerce, Housing and Urban Development, Transportation, Agriculture, the National Economic Council, the Office of Management and Budget, the Domestic Policy Council, and the Council of Economic Advisors. Among its goals are ensuring that "green" jobs are readily available for middle-class workers, providing training and employment for public housing residents, expanding education, protecting incomes for working- and middle-class families, and improving work and family balance. Through inter-agency coordination, the task force hopes to improve the quality of life for middle-class families and reinvigorate the American manufacturing sector through "green" jobs.
EPA Joins HUD, DOT in Partnership for Sustainable Communities
Earlier this year, HUD and DOT announced an unprecedented agreement to implement joint housing and transportation initiatives.This month, EPA announced that it would also be joining the partnership [http://www.nemw.org/dot-hud-epa-partnership20090616.pdf]. The three agencies will work together to ensure that the goals of these housing and transportation initiatives are met, while simultaneously protecting the environment, promoting equitable development, and helping to address the challenges of climate change.The partnership will be guided by a set of Livability Principles [http://www.nemw.org/dot-hud-epa-partnership20090616.pdf] that touch on equity, affordability, and investment in existing communities. ''Where you live affects how you get around, and how you get around often affects where you live," testified EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson before the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. "Both decisions affect our environment. In order to have the most effective greenhouse gas reduction strategy, we should have a strategy to reduce vehicle miles traveled. In order to provide truly affordable housing, we should take into account what residents must pay for transportation, energy, and water.''
Connecticut Passes Slate of Smart Growth Legislation
Thanks to the hard work of 1,000 Friends of Connecticut [http://www.1000friends-ct.org/] and other state and local advocates, the Connecticut legislature passed several bills this session that advance smart growth and planning in the state. Bills addressed needs including: defining smart growth and making it integral to the state's planning, encouraging regionalism, financing green development near transit, expediting the cleanup and reuse of polluted sites, propping up struggling dairy farmers, protecting the dedicated revenue source (the Community Investment Account) for affordable housing, open space, farmland, and historic preservation, and making the streets more complete for cyclists, pedestrians and transit users. The state also passed a vacant properties registration act [http://vacantproperties.org/strategies/tools.html], an important tool for communities across the country that are facing heightened vacancies in the fact of the foreclosure crisis. SB 951, An Act Concerning Neighborhood Protection [http://www.cga.ct.gov/2009/ACT/PA/2009PA-00144-R00SB-00951-PA.htm] requires the registration of any vacant or foreclosed properties with local authorities, and gives those authorities enforcement capability if there are problems with the properties. Read more about the range of legislative victories that occurred this month in Connecticut here [http://1000friends-ct.blogspot.com/].
Millennial Mayors Congress Launched in Michigan
The Millennial Mayors Congress [http://www.millennialmayors.org/] is an exciting new program launched in metropolitan Detroit by the Michigan Suburbs Alliance [http://michigansuburbsalliance.org/] which brings together towns and generations to build ideas and policy for the region. The Congress has two delegates from each of the 22 participating communities in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties ? one local government representative (the mayor or another city official) and one "millennial representative" ? an 18-35 year old community resident. The millennial delegates include attorneys, students, nonprofit leaders, organizers, technical experts and business owners. On June 6th, the Millennial Mayors Congress had its first meeting, and discussed the issues it may tackle this year: economic development and diversification, building a green economy, energy efficiency, and municipal cost-saving strategies. Through a collaborative, regional approach, the Congress hopes to address some of these issues through shared goals, local action, and coordination.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Restoring Prosperity Policy Case Study
Build on Economic Strengths: Invest in Downtown Revitalization
The Problem: The forces of urban sprawl can often divert resources away from city centers and cause downtowns to suffer economically. This process not only hurts the immediate downtown, but also the health of the region.
The Solution: Invest in multi-pronged approaches to downtown revitalization, taking advantage of the synergistic benefits of historic preservation, mixed-use development, improved public transportation, and local business development. Take steps to make downtown public spaces attractive and safe.
Case Study
State: New Jersey
Policy: Starting in 1998, Newark's neighborhood planning process generated a revitalization plan for the area, which includes the Lincoln Park and Coast historic neighborhoods, in order to combat its slow decline. That neighborhood plan articulated a vision of an arts and cultural district that would include artist live-work spaces, mixed-use buildings, community programs, historic preservation, a Museum of African American Music, and restoration of Newark Symphony Hall, all using green building techniques. The Lincoln Park/Coast Cultural District (LPCCD) emerged from that process in 2002 as an organization dedicated to implementing the neighborhood plan, and the Newark Municipal Council adopted the plan in 2005. LPCCD is planning to build 300 "green" units, including townhouses and condos, over four years. These will be targeted to a variety of income levels, so that the housing is accessible to current residents as well as new residents interested in green buildings. LPCCD also created the Green-Collar Apprenticeship Program (GreenCAP), which puts local residents to work on LPCCD's construction projects while giving them both traditional union apprenticeships in HVAC, electrical work, and plumbing and specific training in green construction techniques. The first class, with 30 participants, started work in spring 2008.
More info:
http://www.policylink.org/ToBeStrongAgain.pdf
http://www.lpccd.org/
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Resources
MetroMonitor
The Brookings Institution
http://www.brookings.edu/metro/MetroMonitor.aspx?emc=lm&m=226673&l=1&v=1031848
The Brookings Institute's quarterly MetroMonitor follows markers of economic health for the 100 largest metropolitan economies in America, including employment, wages, Gross Metropolitan Product, housing prices, and real estate owned (REO) properties.
High Road or Low Road?
Good Jobs First
http://www.goodjobsfirst.org/pdf/gjfgreenjobsrpt.pdf
In this report, Good Jobs First looks at the labor quality and standards for existing green jobs, and makes recommendations on how to assure that newly-created green jobs provide sufficient wages and other quality-of-life benefits.
Reclaiming Foreclosed Properties for Community Benefit
PolicyLink
http://www.policylink.org/site/c.lkIXLbMNJrE/b.5280605/k.3855/Reclaiming_Foreclosed_Properties.htm
This tool provides a framework for developing a comprehensive foreclosure recovery plan and showcases the most innovative and promising strategies for the acquisition, maintenance, management and transfer of these properties to low-income renters and homeowners, or for other beneficial use.
Ask the Climate Question: Adapting to Climate Change Impacts in Urban Regions
Center for Clean Air Policy (CCAP)
http://www.ccap.org/docs/resources/674/Urban_Climate_Adaptation-FINAL_CCAP%206-9-09.pdf
In partnership with government leaders from several large counties and cities, CCAP launched the Urban Leaders Adaptation Initiative in 2006 to serve as a resource for local governments as they face important infrastructure and land-use decisions in the face of climate change. This document highlights the progress each partner county or city has made in advancing their local climate adaptation efforts and provides a summary of lessons learned and policy implications gathered by CCAP to date.
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In the News
Michigan: No More Appeals, Tiger Stadium Falling
http://www.freep.com/article/20090608/NEWS05/90608038/No+more+appeals++Tiger+Stadium+falling
California: Rebooting Urban Watersheds
http://www.hcn.org/issues/41.10/rebooting-the-urban-watershed-movement
New York/New Jersey: Work Begins on the Nation's Largest Mass Transit Project
http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/06/08/newyork.rail.tunnel/index.html
New Jersey: Suburban Sprawl Stops in Morris County
http://www.dailyrecord.com/article/20090607/COMMUNITIES/906070310/1005/NEWS01
To subscribe to the newsletter, contact Mara at Smart Growth America
State and National News
News from Smart Growth America's State Stimulus Campaign
June 29th marked the 120-day deadline for states to commit at least 50 percent ($13.3 billion) of the transportation funding available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). SGA's state stimulus campaign has released The States and the Stimulus: Are they using it to create jobs and 21st century transportation? (http://blog.smartgrowthamerica.org/2009/06/29/120-days-in-sga-reviews-the-stimulus-spending-on-transportation/). The report evaluates state project lists at this 120-day mark to determine how effective states have been in achieving the goals set forth by ARRA, as well as their success in creating jobs, building towards a 21st century transportation system, and making transparent and accountable spending decisions.
At the national level, the study identifies some discouraging trends:
? Despite a multi-trillion dollar backlog of road and bridge repairs, states committed almost a third of the ARRA Surface Transportation Program (STP) money to new capacity road and bridge projects rather than repair.
? Most states did not use ARRA funding to fill the giant backlog in public transportation investment.
? Overall, transparency of decisions is lacking, and accountability for results is weak.
However, the study also highlights some notable achievements at the state level: seven states are spending more than 10 percent of their funding on expanding public transportation, walking, and biking choices, and 17 states are spending more than 90 percent of funding on road repair. Read more about the report here [stimulus.smartgrowthamerica.org/20ways].
House Transportation Bill Released
Congressman James Oberstar, Chairman of the House Transportation Committee, released a draft of the House Surface Transportation Authorization Act of 2009 [http://t4america.org/pressers/2009/06/23/house-transportation-bill-lays-groundwork-for-reform-but-key-details-are-missing-significant-work-still-needed/]last week. Some of the basic principles for reform are present, but key details are still missing. Positive features of the bill include that it increases public transit funding, simplifies and streamlines federal transportation policy, increases local control, directs money towards repair and maintenance, and helps large metro areas meet their pressing transportation needs. Critical areas for improvement include the need for a greater focus on performance targets and accountability, incentives that would encourage states and localities to coordinate land use and development planning with transportation, and a greater focus on equity and affordability. The Obama administration has requested that the transportation authorization be tabled for 18 months, but Congressman Oberstar has voiced his desire to move forward with the bill. To track the legislation's progress, visit the Transportation for America blog [http://www.t4america.org/blog].
Congresswoman Schwartz (PA) Introduces Green Communities Act
In April, Representative Allyson Schwartz (PA-13) introduced the Green Communities Act (HR 2222) [http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=111_cong_bills&docid=f:h2222ih.txt.pdf], which would give grants to municipalities for community greening initiatives. This act [http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d111:h.r.02222:] would provide funds for eighty municipalities to encourage revitalization of parks and other public spaces, landscape community areas, plant trees and participate in other urban forestry projects, preserve open space, construct green roofs, create green stormwater infrastructure, manage vacant lots, and educate the community on these green initiatives. Projects funded through this bill could improve neighborhoods, increase real estate values, encourage commercial development, and reduce violence and crime. The program would extend for five years ? fiscal years 2010-2014 ? and provide a total of $270 million in funding for these initiatives to improve neighborhoods. Advocates are seeking cosponsors for the bill now. For more information, contact Greg Lewis [glewis@nemw.org] at the Northeast-Midwest Institute [http://www.nemw.org/].
Middle Class Task Force Announced
On May 26th, a new interagency partnership called the Middle Class Task Force [http://www.whitehouse.gov/strongmiddleclass/] was announced [http://www.hud.gov/news/release.cfm?content=pr09-074.cfm]. The task force is "a major initiative targeted at raising the living standards of middle-class, working families in America." It is chaired by Vice President Biden, and includes representatives from several executive agencies: Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, Treasury, Commerce, Housing and Urban Development, Transportation, Agriculture, the National Economic Council, the Office of Management and Budget, the Domestic Policy Council, and the Council of Economic Advisors. Among its goals are ensuring that "green" jobs are readily available for middle-class workers, providing training and employment for public housing residents, expanding education, protecting incomes for working- and middle-class families, and improving work and family balance. Through inter-agency coordination, the task force hopes to improve the quality of life for middle-class families and reinvigorate the American manufacturing sector through "green" jobs.
EPA Joins HUD, DOT in Partnership for Sustainable Communities
Earlier this year, HUD and DOT announced an unprecedented agreement to implement joint housing and transportation initiatives.This month, EPA announced that it would also be joining the partnership [http://www.nemw.org/dot-hud-epa-partnership20090616.pdf]. The three agencies will work together to ensure that the goals of these housing and transportation initiatives are met, while simultaneously protecting the environment, promoting equitable development, and helping to address the challenges of climate change.The partnership will be guided by a set of Livability Principles [http://www.nemw.org/dot-hud-epa-partnership20090616.pdf] that touch on equity, affordability, and investment in existing communities. ''Where you live affects how you get around, and how you get around often affects where you live," testified EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson before the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. "Both decisions affect our environment. In order to have the most effective greenhouse gas reduction strategy, we should have a strategy to reduce vehicle miles traveled. In order to provide truly affordable housing, we should take into account what residents must pay for transportation, energy, and water.''
Connecticut Passes Slate of Smart Growth Legislation
Thanks to the hard work of 1,000 Friends of Connecticut [http://www.1000friends-ct.org/] and other state and local advocates, the Connecticut legislature passed several bills this session that advance smart growth and planning in the state. Bills addressed needs including: defining smart growth and making it integral to the state's planning, encouraging regionalism, financing green development near transit, expediting the cleanup and reuse of polluted sites, propping up struggling dairy farmers, protecting the dedicated revenue source (the Community Investment Account) for affordable housing, open space, farmland, and historic preservation, and making the streets more complete for cyclists, pedestrians and transit users. The state also passed a vacant properties registration act [http://vacantproperties.org/strategies/tools.html], an important tool for communities across the country that are facing heightened vacancies in the fact of the foreclosure crisis. SB 951, An Act Concerning Neighborhood Protection [http://www.cga.ct.gov/2009/ACT/PA/2009PA-00144-R00SB-00951-PA.htm] requires the registration of any vacant or foreclosed properties with local authorities, and gives those authorities enforcement capability if there are problems with the properties. Read more about the range of legislative victories that occurred this month in Connecticut here [http://1000friends-ct.blogspot.com/].
Millennial Mayors Congress Launched in Michigan
The Millennial Mayors Congress [http://www.millennialmayors.org/] is an exciting new program launched in metropolitan Detroit by the Michigan Suburbs Alliance [http://michigansuburbsalliance.org/] which brings together towns and generations to build ideas and policy for the region. The Congress has two delegates from each of the 22 participating communities in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties ? one local government representative (the mayor or another city official) and one "millennial representative" ? an 18-35 year old community resident. The millennial delegates include attorneys, students, nonprofit leaders, organizers, technical experts and business owners. On June 6th, the Millennial Mayors Congress had its first meeting, and discussed the issues it may tackle this year: economic development and diversification, building a green economy, energy efficiency, and municipal cost-saving strategies. Through a collaborative, regional approach, the Congress hopes to address some of these issues through shared goals, local action, and coordination.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Restoring Prosperity Policy Case Study
Build on Economic Strengths: Invest in Downtown Revitalization
The Problem: The forces of urban sprawl can often divert resources away from city centers and cause downtowns to suffer economically. This process not only hurts the immediate downtown, but also the health of the region.
The Solution: Invest in multi-pronged approaches to downtown revitalization, taking advantage of the synergistic benefits of historic preservation, mixed-use development, improved public transportation, and local business development. Take steps to make downtown public spaces attractive and safe.
Case Study
State: New Jersey
Policy: Starting in 1998, Newark's neighborhood planning process generated a revitalization plan for the area, which includes the Lincoln Park and Coast historic neighborhoods, in order to combat its slow decline. That neighborhood plan articulated a vision of an arts and cultural district that would include artist live-work spaces, mixed-use buildings, community programs, historic preservation, a Museum of African American Music, and restoration of Newark Symphony Hall, all using green building techniques. The Lincoln Park/Coast Cultural District (LPCCD) emerged from that process in 2002 as an organization dedicated to implementing the neighborhood plan, and the Newark Municipal Council adopted the plan in 2005. LPCCD is planning to build 300 "green" units, including townhouses and condos, over four years. These will be targeted to a variety of income levels, so that the housing is accessible to current residents as well as new residents interested in green buildings. LPCCD also created the Green-Collar Apprenticeship Program (GreenCAP), which puts local residents to work on LPCCD's construction projects while giving them both traditional union apprenticeships in HVAC, electrical work, and plumbing and specific training in green construction techniques. The first class, with 30 participants, started work in spring 2008.
More info:
http://www.policylink.org/ToBeStrongAgain.pdf
http://www.lpccd.org/
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Resources
MetroMonitor
The Brookings Institution
http://www.brookings.edu/metro/MetroMonitor.aspx?emc=lm&m=226673&l=1&v=1031848
The Brookings Institute's quarterly MetroMonitor follows markers of economic health for the 100 largest metropolitan economies in America, including employment, wages, Gross Metropolitan Product, housing prices, and real estate owned (REO) properties.
High Road or Low Road?
Good Jobs First
http://www.goodjobsfirst.org/pdf/gjfgreenjobsrpt.pdf
In this report, Good Jobs First looks at the labor quality and standards for existing green jobs, and makes recommendations on how to assure that newly-created green jobs provide sufficient wages and other quality-of-life benefits.
Reclaiming Foreclosed Properties for Community Benefit
PolicyLink
http://www.policylink.org/site/c.lkIXLbMNJrE/b.5280605/k.3855/Reclaiming_Foreclosed_Properties.htm
This tool provides a framework for developing a comprehensive foreclosure recovery plan and showcases the most innovative and promising strategies for the acquisition, maintenance, management and transfer of these properties to low-income renters and homeowners, or for other beneficial use.
Ask the Climate Question: Adapting to Climate Change Impacts in Urban Regions
Center for Clean Air Policy (CCAP)
http://www.ccap.org/docs/resources/674/Urban_Climate_Adaptation-FINAL_CCAP%206-9-09.pdf
In partnership with government leaders from several large counties and cities, CCAP launched the Urban Leaders Adaptation Initiative in 2006 to serve as a resource for local governments as they face important infrastructure and land-use decisions in the face of climate change. This document highlights the progress each partner county or city has made in advancing their local climate adaptation efforts and provides a summary of lessons learned and policy implications gathered by CCAP to date.
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In the News
Michigan: No More Appeals, Tiger Stadium Falling
http://www.freep.com/article/20090608/NEWS05/90608038/No+more+appeals++Tiger+Stadium+falling
California: Rebooting Urban Watersheds
http://www.hcn.org/issues/41.10/rebooting-the-urban-watershed-movement
New York/New Jersey: Work Begins on the Nation's Largest Mass Transit Project
http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/06/08/newyork.rail.tunnel/index.html
New Jersey: Suburban Sprawl Stops in Morris County
http://www.dailyrecord.com/article/20090607/COMMUNITIES/906070310/1005/NEWS01
Friday, July 31, 2009
$4 Million En Route to NHHS Line
WASHINGTON – Senator Chris Dodd (D-CT) announced that the Connecticut Department of Transportation will receive $4 million for the development of the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield rail line under legislation approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee today. The project is included in the Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations Act that would provide ConnDOT with $4 million in transit planning funds for the project.
“This funding is a down payment on the future of the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield rail line,” said Dodd. “Moving forward with the development of the rail line is going to require a solid foundation and coordination among states, federal transit and rail agencies, and Amtrak. These funds will give ConnDOT the additional tools to help build this collaboration.”
Dodd, a leading advocate for the=2 0development of the Tri-City Corridor, worked with his colleagues on the Appropriations Committee to secure the funding. This measure will help ConnDOT conduct the analyses required to secure future funding through the Federal Transit Administration’s New Starts process, in addition to pursuing high-speed rail funds provided in the Recovery Act.
The Tri-City Corridor would establish both faster intercity and commuter service between New Haven, Hartford, and Springfield, providing residents of central Connecticut with better access to southwest Connecticut, New York City, western Massachusetts and Vermont.
Read the Courant story.
“This funding is a down payment on the future of the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield rail line,” said Dodd. “Moving forward with the development of the rail line is going to require a solid foundation and coordination among states, federal transit and rail agencies, and Amtrak. These funds will give ConnDOT the additional tools to help build this collaboration.”
Dodd, a leading advocate for the=2 0development of the Tri-City Corridor, worked with his colleagues on the Appropriations Committee to secure the funding. This measure will help ConnDOT conduct the analyses required to secure future funding through the Federal Transit Administration’s New Starts process, in addition to pursuing high-speed rail funds provided in the Recovery Act.
The Tri-City Corridor would establish both faster intercity and commuter service between New Haven, Hartford, and Springfield, providing residents of central Connecticut with better access to southwest Connecticut, New York City, western Massachusetts and Vermont.
Read the Courant story.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
T4 America Co-chair to head HUD Office of Sustainable Housing and Communities
T4 America Co-Chair Shelley Poticha to head new HUD Office of Sustainable Housing and Communities
July 24, 2009
By Transportation for America
CONTACT: David Goldberg
202.412-7930
david.goldberg@T4America.org
The Obama Administration has appointed Transportation for America Co-Chair Shelley Poticha to be Senior Advisor for Sustainable Housing and Communities at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the department announced today.
Poticha, who is also President and CEO of Reconnecting America, is expected to head a new HUD Office of Sustainable Housing and Communities that would be created under legislation to be sponsored by Senate Banking Committee Chairman Chris Dodd (D-CT).
“Shelley will help lead HUD’s effort to change the way we think about how our communities fit with how Americans live their lives,” said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. “Her wealth of experience will help move us forward in creating sustainable, greener and smarter communities.”
Poticha has been Co-Chair of the Transportation for America campaign since its launch in 2008. As president and CEO of the national nonprofit Reconnecting America since 2004, she has become a national leader for the reform of land use and transportation planning and policy. In that role, and as former executive director of the Congress for the New Urbanism, she has helped stimulate a national conversation about the role of transportation in shaping communities and making them more sustainable and affordable. She also has been a tireless advocate for diverse and inclusive neighborhoods.
“Shelley understands how transportation, housing, energy and environmental policies impact the real lives of people,” said James Corless, Director of Transportation for America. “She will be a powerful voice to ensure we make smarter investments at the federal level to make American communities safer, healthier and more prosperous. We are sad to loser her leadership of our campaign, but are proud to see her take on this new and exciting challenge.”
“Shelley has worked with all levels of government on the issues of livability, sustainability and affordability. Secretary Donovan couldn’t have made a better choice,” said New York City Transportation Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan, President of Reconnecting America’s Board of Directors and a member of the T4 America executive committee. “Shelley is one of this country’s foremost experts on sustainable communities.”
Poticha will advise HUD Deputy Secretary Ron Sims on sustainability issues. Sims was previously Director of Strategic Planning and Performance Management for King County, Washington.
“Shelley is a visionary and well-respected expert in growth management and urban policy and will help all of us focus on how to create better living environments for all Americans,” Sims said.
HUD’s Office of Sustainable Housing and Communities will advance will provide technical and policy support for energy, green building and integrated housing and transportation programs at HUD and around the nation. Additionally, the office will manage the department’s key relationships with other federal agencies.
Poticha has helped forge an interagency partnership between HUD and the Federal Transit Administration to link transit and land use policy and funding, and to study the interplay between housing and transportation costs. One of the products of this partnership was a report entitled “Realizing the Potential: Expanding Housing Opportunities Near Transit,” which examined the strategies being used to create and preserve mixed-income housing near transit in five case study regions. The report was authored by the Center for Transit-Oriented Development, a partnership of Reconnecting America, the Center for Neighborhood Technology and Strategic Economics.
Shelley has co-authored several books, including The New Transit Town: Best Practices in Transit-Oriented Development, Street Smart: Streetcars and Cities in the 21st Century, and The Next American Metropolis, as well as the Charter of the New Urbanism, and many reports and white papers.
July 24, 2009
By Transportation for America
CONTACT: David Goldberg
202.412-7930
david.goldberg@T4America.org
The Obama Administration has appointed Transportation for America Co-Chair Shelley Poticha to be Senior Advisor for Sustainable Housing and Communities at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the department announced today.
Poticha, who is also President and CEO of Reconnecting America, is expected to head a new HUD Office of Sustainable Housing and Communities that would be created under legislation to be sponsored by Senate Banking Committee Chairman Chris Dodd (D-CT).
“Shelley will help lead HUD’s effort to change the way we think about how our communities fit with how Americans live their lives,” said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. “Her wealth of experience will help move us forward in creating sustainable, greener and smarter communities.”
Poticha has been Co-Chair of the Transportation for America campaign since its launch in 2008. As president and CEO of the national nonprofit Reconnecting America since 2004, she has become a national leader for the reform of land use and transportation planning and policy. In that role, and as former executive director of the Congress for the New Urbanism, she has helped stimulate a national conversation about the role of transportation in shaping communities and making them more sustainable and affordable. She also has been a tireless advocate for diverse and inclusive neighborhoods.
“Shelley understands how transportation, housing, energy and environmental policies impact the real lives of people,” said James Corless, Director of Transportation for America. “She will be a powerful voice to ensure we make smarter investments at the federal level to make American communities safer, healthier and more prosperous. We are sad to loser her leadership of our campaign, but are proud to see her take on this new and exciting challenge.”
“Shelley has worked with all levels of government on the issues of livability, sustainability and affordability. Secretary Donovan couldn’t have made a better choice,” said New York City Transportation Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan, President of Reconnecting America’s Board of Directors and a member of the T4 America executive committee. “Shelley is one of this country’s foremost experts on sustainable communities.”
Poticha will advise HUD Deputy Secretary Ron Sims on sustainability issues. Sims was previously Director of Strategic Planning and Performance Management for King County, Washington.
“Shelley is a visionary and well-respected expert in growth management and urban policy and will help all of us focus on how to create better living environments for all Americans,” Sims said.
HUD’s Office of Sustainable Housing and Communities will advance will provide technical and policy support for energy, green building and integrated housing and transportation programs at HUD and around the nation. Additionally, the office will manage the department’s key relationships with other federal agencies.
Poticha has helped forge an interagency partnership between HUD and the Federal Transit Administration to link transit and land use policy and funding, and to study the interplay between housing and transportation costs. One of the products of this partnership was a report entitled “Realizing the Potential: Expanding Housing Opportunities Near Transit,” which examined the strategies being used to create and preserve mixed-income housing near transit in five case study regions. The report was authored by the Center for Transit-Oriented Development, a partnership of Reconnecting America, the Center for Neighborhood Technology and Strategic Economics.
Shelley has co-authored several books, including The New Transit Town: Best Practices in Transit-Oriented Development, Street Smart: Streetcars and Cities in the 21st Century, and The Next American Metropolis, as well as the Charter of the New Urbanism, and many reports and white papers.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
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