EPA, HUD, DOT and City of Atlanta to Mark Partnership for Sustainable Communities Third Anniversary

Press release:

Media Advisory
August 27, 2012

EPA, HUD, DOT and City of Atlanta to Mark Partnership for Sustainable Communities Third Anniversary

Contact Information:  Dawn Harris-Young, (404) 562-8421, harris-young.dawn@epa.gov  or Jason McDonald, (404) 562-9203, mcdonald.jason@epa.gov

ATLANTA – On August 29, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Regional Administrator Gwen Keyes Fleming will join Mayor Kasim Reed, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Regional Administrator Ed Jennings, Jr. and Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Regional Administrator Dr. Yvette Taylor to celebrate the third anniversary of the Partnership for Sustainable Communities (Partnership).  The Partnership is an interagency effort to help communities nationwide improve access to affordable housing, increase transportation options, and lower transportation costs while protecting the environment and people’s health.
To celebrate the local accomplishments of this partnership initiated within the city of Atlanta, a program and workshop has been planned to share the Partnership’s successes and plans for the future. Stakeholders, that include neighborhood, non-profit and elected leaders, will share information on what has worked in southwest Atlanta.  Representatives from nearby communities will also discuss how Partnership projects are setting trends in their area.

Who:  Gwen Keyes Fleming, EPA Regional Administrator
 Kasim Reed, Mayor, City of Atlanta
 Ed Jennings, Jr., HUD Regional Administrator
Dr. Yvette Taylor, FTA Regional Administrator,

What:  Mark Partnership for Sustainable Communities Third Anniversary
When:  August 29, 2012
Where: Kroc Center
967 Dewey Street SW
Atlanta, GA

Since announcing the partnership, the agencies have dedicated more than $2.5 billion in assistance nationally to more than 200 communities in 48 states to help meet housing and transportation goals while simultaneously protecting the environment, promoting equitable development, and addressing the challenges of climate change. Of that funding, $238 million was focused on America’s rural communities.

For more information about the Partnership for Sustainable Communities, visit: http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov/.

Note:  A media availability will be held from 10:15 until 10:45 a.m. in the Kroc Center.

###

Rockwell Collins awards $87,500 in Green Communities grants to fund projects globally

Press release:

Rockwell Collins awards $87,500 in Green Communities grants to fund projects globally

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (June 12, 2012) – More than 40 organizations around the world will benefit from $87,500 in Green Communities environmental grants awarded by Rockwell Collins this year.

The grants benefit organizations like Project AWARE (A Watershed Awareness River Expedition), which has been a four-time recipient. Project AWARE works to remove thousands of pounds of trash from a different Iowa river each summer. The whole project serves to emphasize the role of recycling in the environmental decision-making process, all the while giving Iowans a sense of engagement with their environment.

Last summer’s event targeted the Turkey River, where 429 volunteers worked to remove more than 32 tons of trash from the 88 miles of river. The project typically runs over a week-long period and brings in volunteers of all ages. Since it began in 2003, more than 2,150 volunteers have helped to clear more than 700 miles of Iowa rivers and have removed more than 182 tons of trash (65 percent of which has been recycled). This summer volunteers will complete similar work on 90 miles of the Iowa River.

The Green Communities grant program, in its ninth year, funds projects that improve the environmental condition of communities where Rockwell Collins operates. To apply, a qualified non-profit organization or public/government entity must team with a Rockwell Collins employee or retiree.

Grants were awarded by a review committee based on criteria including:

• Tangible environmental benefits of the project
• Sustainability of the project benefits
• Participation in the project by Rockwell Collins employees and/or retirees
• Completion of the project within the calendar year of the grant award
• Agreement to participate in publicizing the grant and the completed project

Since 2004, the company has awarded more than 348 grants through the program, ranging from $250 to $2,500. This year’s grant recipients include:

$2,500 awards (19)

• San Bernardino Mountains Wildlife Society – Wildhaven Ranch Wildlife protection plan
• Town of Grant-Valkaria – Native Species park planting
• Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program – Extend NatureWalk
• Brevard County NRMO and The Friends of the Viera Wetlands Association – Nesting platforms for Viera Wetlands
• YMCA of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Area – Enhancing Camp Wapsie
• Trees Forever, Inc.- TreeKeepers program
• City of Prairieburg – Greener Prairieburg Project
• City of Sergeant Bluff – Naturalization plantings
• Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Lake MacBride State Park – Native prairie reconstruction
• Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Project AWARE – Watershed awareness river expedition
• Northeast Iowa Community College Foundation- Calmar, IA - Native plant and butterfly garden
• Northeast Iowa Community College Foundation- Peosta, IA - Rain garden and natural prairie
• Grand Aspirations – Wetherby Park restoration and conservation project
• Lake Delhi Recreation Association, Inc. – Lake bed clean-up project
• City of Sioux City – Prairie restoration
• Moving Milan Forward – Recovery plan for “Fireworks Island”
• Regent Honeyeater Project Inc. – Habitat for threatened species
• La Trobe Wildlife Sanctuary – Nesting boxes for habitat
• Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity – Affordable net-zero habitat house

$2,000 awards (8)

• Community Corrections Improvement Association – Home energy audits and weatherization
• Anamosa Parks and Recreation Department - Arboretum
• Czech Village New Bohemia Urban Main Street District – Native prairie restoration
• City of Iowa City Parks and Recreation – Monarch Waystation Program
• Indian Creek Nature Center – Bat habitat restoration
• Summer of the Arts, Inc. – Think, Be Green Initiative
• Preston Community Schools – Motion sensor lights
• West Delaware County Community Schools – It’s Up to You: Go Green, Paper Get Over It

$1,800 award (1)

• Friends of Hickory Hill Park – Park improvement

$1,500 awards (6)

• Brevard Regional Arts Group – LED lighting conversion
• Links Foundation, Inc. – Community garden program
• Matthew 25 Ministry Hub – Urban farm development
• Linn County Conservation Board – Environmental restoration
• Decorah Community School District – Rain barrel watering system
• Groundwork Dallas – Trail project

$1,000 awards (11)

• K9COLA Citizens for Off-Leash Areas – Tree planting
• Rockwell Collins Child Development Center – Come Together to Continue Nuturing Our Children Through Nature
• Patty Elwood Center – Courtyard transformation project
• Prairiewoods Franciscan Spirituality Center – Extending the growing season project
• Czech Village New Bohemia Urban Main Street District – ArtBikes Lending Library
• Iowa Art Works Inc. – Recycling center
• The Tapestry – Thermal remediation
• ADET- Paus de L’ours – Initiative to sustain brown bear in the Pyrenees
• ASTER - Recycling
• Organisation Bus Cyclistes – Cycling bus development
• Environmental Events - LEAForum

$700 award (1)

• Diocese of Monterey – Butterfly garden/habitat

$500 awards (1)

• City of Mount Vernon – Prairie restoration

About Rockwell Collins
Rockwell Collins (NYSE: COL) is a pioneer in the development and deployment of innovative communication and aviation electronic solutions for both commercial and government applications. Our expertise in flight deck avionics, cabin electronics, mission communications, information management, and simulation and training is delivered by 20,000 employees, and a global service and support network that crosses 27 countries. To find out more, please visit www.rockwellcollins.com.

Local Meetings on Free Help for Superfund Communities: Apr 17, 18, 19

Interested in Superfund cleanup in the Coeur d’Alene Basin?
Would you like to better understand the cleanup process and provide input on community needs?

Free help is available. Come learn about independent educational and technical assistance for the community through Technical Assistance Services for Communities (TASC).

Everyone is invited.
The same material will be presented at each location.

WALLACE
Tuesday, April 17, 6 p.m.
Wallace Inn, Gold Room
100 Front Street

POST FALLS
Wednesday, April 18, 10 a.m.
City Hall, Council Chambers
408 N Spokane Street

KELLOGG
Thursday, April 19, 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Silver Mountain Resort, Shoshone Room
610 Bunker Avenue

TASC is an EPA program that gives independent educational and technical assistance to communities affected by hazardous waste sites regulated by Superfund and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). TASC also helps communities address other environmental problems, like air and water issues. The program can help communities better understand and become involved in the cleanup.  TASC representatives will explain the program, preview cleanup activities, and answer your questions. TASC representatives would like to identify people who wish to share input about what services they think could be useful to the community.

A SIGNUP SHEET WILL BE OFFERED FOR THOSE WHO WISH TO PROVIDE INPUT ON ASSISTANCE NEEDS.

For information, contact:
Alison Frost, Technical Assistance Specialist
(719) 256-6708, afrost@skeo.com

This presentation is funded in whole or partly through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Technical Assistance Services for Communities program. Its contents do not necessarily reflect the policies, actions, or positions of the U.S. EPA. 

Waste Mgt. Named to Ethisphere's 2012 World's Most Ethical Companies

Waste Management Named to Ethisphere’s 2012 World’s Most Ethical Companies for the Fifth Consecutive Year

Award recognizes exceptional ethical leadership across continents and industries

HOUSTON – March 16, 2012 – Waste Management (NYSE: WM) has been recognized by the Ethisphere Institute, the leading business ethics think-tank, as one of the 2012 World’s Most Ethical (WME) Companies. This is the fifth year the company has been honored for promoting the highest of ethical standards. Out of a record number of nominations for the award, WM secured a spot on the list by implementing and maintaining business practices and initiatives that are instrumental to the company’s success, benefit the community and raise the bar for ethical standards within the industry.

“It is an honor to be recognized by Ethisphere for our strong corporate culture that values ethics, diversity and sustainability,” said David Steiner, chief executive officer and president of WM. “As an industry leader we strive to operate in a way that contributes to the success of our business and the communities we serve. I believe it is our responsibility to make positive change for the environment and for society.” 

This is the sixth year Ethisphere has published the WME rankings. Ethisphere reviewed hundreds of companies and evaluated a record number of applications utilizing its propriety methodology through in-depth research and multi-step analysis, naming the companies that surpassed their industry peers to this year’s World’s Most Ethical Companies list. The 2012 list features companies in more than three dozen industries, including 40 companies headquartered outside the United States.

The methodology for the WME ranking includes reviewing codes of ethics, litigation and regulatory infraction histories; evaluating the investment in innovation and sustainable business practices; looking at activities designed to improve corporate citizenship; and studying nominations from senior executives, industry peers, suppliers and customers.

“A strong ethical foundation is a competitive advantage, and WM recognizes the important role corporate responsibility plays in improving its bottom line,” said Alex Brigham, executive director of the Ethisphere Institute. “As more and more organizations strive for this honor each year, WM’s inclusion as a World’s Most Ethical Company for 2012 demonstrates its industry-leading commitment to ethics and dedication to integrity.”

Read about the methodology and view the complete list of the 2012 World’s Most Ethical Companies at http://ethisphere.com/worlds-most-ethical-companies-rankings/.

About Ethisphere Institute

The research-based Ethisphere^® Institute is a leading international think-tank dedicated to the creation, advancement and sharing of best practices in business ethics, corporate social responsibility, anti-corruption and sustainability. Ethisphere Magazine, which publishes the globally recognized World’s Most Ethical Companies Ranking™, is the quarterly publication of the Institute. Ethisphere provides the only third-party verifications of compliance programs and ethical cultures that include: Ethics Inside^® Certification, Compliance Leader Verification™ and Anti-Corruption Program Verification™. The Institute’s premier membership group, the Business Ethics Leadership Alliance™, is a business ethics forum that includes more than 100 leading corporations, universities and institutions that collectively leverage their experience, expertise and innovative ways to address emerging compliance challenges. More information on the Ethisphere Institute, including ranking projects and membership, can be found atwww.ethisphere.com. 

About Waste Management

Waste Management, Inc., based in Houston, Texas, is the leading provider of comprehensive waste management services in North America. Through its subsidiaries, the company provides collection, transfer, recycling and resource recovery, and disposal services. It is also one of the largest residential recyclers and a leading developer, operator and owner of waste-to-energy and landfill gas-to-energy facilities in the United States. The company’s customers include residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal customers throughout North America. To learn more information about Waste Management visit www.wm.com.

Cities of the Future, Songdo, South Korea - Water Conservation

Cities of the Future, Songdo, South Korea - Water Conservation

News Release from EPA Region 10

Spokane Tribe to receive EPA Smart Growth assistance

Community of Wellpinit water and sewer system challenges addressed

Contact: Abby Hall, EPA Office of Sustainable Communities, 415-972-3384, hall.abby@epa.gov; Tony Brown, EPA Public Affairs, 206-553-1203, brown.anthony@epa.gov

(Seattle–March 12, 2012)) – The Spokane Tribe of Indians in eastern Washington will benefit from EPA technical assistance through the Smart Growth Implementation Assistance (SGIA) program. The Tribe will work with technical experts to address future water infrastructure needs in the community of Wellpinit, Washington.

The EPA funds private-sector experts through the EPA Smart Growth program to work with communities as they plan for future needs in ways that sustain environmental and economic progress and create a high quality of life. The Spokane Tribe requested assistance to support their development of a comprehensive water infrastructure plan that will focus on water and sewer system challenges in Wellpinit. The community faces future challenges of summer water shortages, drinking water delivery, pipe and pump failures, and design and maintenance of sewage management systems.

“Bringing private-sector consultants together with the professional staff of the Spokane Tribe will create a strong partnership to address future growth and the strains placed on older water systems,” said Melanie Wood, Sustainable Infrastructure Coordinator in EPA’s Pacific Northwest office. “These EPA Smart Growth programs not only provide support for environmental improvements, they also set the stage for green jobs and a healthier economy.”

The EPA assistance builds upon a Housing and Urban Development Community Challenge Planning Grant the Tribe received in 2010. The water infrastructure plan will create a foundation for future housing, transportation, and economic development planning.

Since 2005 EPA has supported 31 SGIA projects, serving dozens of communities.

Smart Growth Implementation Assistance is a project of the Partnership for Sustainable Communities among EPA, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The interagency collaboration coordinates federal investments in infrastructure, facilities, and services to get better results for communities and use taxpayer money more efficiently. The partnership is helping communities across the country create more housing choices, make transportation more efficient and reliable, reinforce existing investments, and support vibrant and healthy neighborhoods that attract businesses.

More information:

SGIA: http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/sgia2012.htm

Partnership for Sustainable Communities: http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov

Wellpinit community contact: Scott Radford, info@antithesisresearch.org/, 509-258-7100

News Release from EPA Region 2 - Smart Growth Assistance Upstate NY

EPA Provides Technical Assistance to Upstate New York County to Promote Smart Growth Strategies

Contact: John Martin (212) 637-3662, martin.johnj@epa.gov 

(New York, N.Y. – March 9, 2012) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today that it will offer technical assistance to Madison County, New York, to help it implement smart growth strategies that preserve the county’s rural character. This initiative, which is part of the EPA’s Smart Growth Implementation Assistance program, aims to help communities address development challenges in ways that improve the economy, the environment and public health.

“Communities around the country are facing a variety of challenges as they try to make the best use of their resources, improve the quality of life for their residents, and spur economic growth,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “EPA’s assistance can help these communities explore new options for growth that protects their environment while laying a foundation for prosperity.”

In addition to Madison County, the following applicants will receive technical assistance in 2012:

• State of Vermont -- EPA will help communities in the Mad River Valley recover from flood damage and become more resilient to future natural disasters.
• Spokans Indian Reservation, Eastern Wash. -- EPA will help the Spokane Tribe of Indians develop a comprehensive water infrastructure plan.
• San Francisco, Calif. -- EPA will help San Francisco develop a citywide district energy plan.
• Billings, Mont. -- EPA will help Billings develop a model for collaborative planning that signs school siting with community revitalization, affordable housing, and transportation plans.

The program will offer these communities technical assistance to help understand new or cutting-edge development issues, and will then replicate that assistance to other places facing similar challenges. In addition, the program aims to identify common barriers to sustainability, and create new tools other communities can use.

Since 2005 EPA has supported 31 Smart Growth Implementation Assistance projects, serving dozens of communities. The projects are coordinated through the Partnership for Sustainable Communities, a joint effort of EPA, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The interagency collaboration coordinates federal investments in infrastructure, facilities and services to get better results for communities and use taxpayer money more efficiently. The Partnership is helping communities across the country create more housing choices, make transportation more efficient and reliable, reinforce existing investments and support vibrant neighborhoods that attract new business.

More information on the Smart Growth Implementation Assistance Program and the selected communities: http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/sgia2012.htm

More information on the Partnership for Sustainable Communities: http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov

Follow EPA Region 2 on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/eparegion2 and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/eparegion2.

12-033                                                             # # #

News Release from EPA Region 2 - Smart Growth Assistance NY

EPA to Provide Three New York Communities with

Smart Growth Assistance 

Contact: John Martin (212) 637- 3662, martin.johnj@epa.gov

(New York, N.Y. – March 9, 2012) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today announced that the city of Binghamton, the town of Stony Point in Rockland County, and Onondaga County will receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program. The assistance will be provided by EPA-funded private-sector experts, who will conduct workshops in each community. The technical experts will work with the communities on actions they can take to improve the economy, the environment, and quality of life.

Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities is a project of the Partnership for Sustainable Communities among the EPA, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The interagency collaboration coordinates federal investments in infrastructure, facilities, and services to get better results for communities and use taxpayer money more efficiently. The partnership is helping communities across the country create more housing choices, make transportation more efficient and reliable, reinforce existing investments, and support vibrant and healthy neighborhoods that attract businesses.

• The EPA will provide Binghamton with a "Complete Streets" workshop.  This workshop will teach local government officials and community members how to set investment priorities, draft policies, and implement changes to make their streets safe and appealing to all users, including drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit riders.
• The EPA will provide Stony Point with a "Using Smart Growth to Produce Fiscal and Economic Health" workshop.  The City will use the assistance as a springboard for community residents to incorporate smart growth concepts into the daily operations of government and private development processes.
• Onondaga County will receive assistance with Smart Growth Zoning Codes for Small Cities and Rural Areas.  This assistance offers solutions that the county can make to their zoning codes and planning documents to promote

Today’s announcement marks the second round of Building Blocks assistance. Thirty-two other communities were named in the first round in April 2011. This year, the EPA selected 56 communities from 350 applicants through a competitive process in consultation with EPA’s regional offices, HUD, DOT, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

More information on the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities: http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/buildingblocks.htm

More information on the Partnership for Sustainable Communities: http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov

Follow EPA Region 2 on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/eparegion2 and visit our Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/eparegion2

12-032                                                             # # #

News Release from EPA Region 2 - Smart Growth Assistance

EPA to Provide Three New Jersey Communities with

Smart Growth Assistance

Contact: John Martin (212) 637- 3662, martin.johnj@epa.gov

(New York, N.Y. – March 9, 2012) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today announced that Jersey City, Trenton, and Passaic County will receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program. The assistance will be provided by EPA-funded private-sector experts, who will conduct workshops in each community. The technical experts will work with the communities on actions they can take to improve the economy, the environment, and quality of life.

Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities is a project of the Partnership for Sustainable Communities among the EPA, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The interagency collaboration coordinates federal investments in infrastructure, facilities, and services to get better results for communities and use taxpayer money more efficiently. The partnership is helping communities across the country create more housing choices, make transportation more efficient and reliable, reinforce existing investments, and support vibrant and healthy neighborhoods that attract businesses.

• The EPA will provide Jersey City with a "Walking Audit" workshop.  The workshop will identify the good and bad aspects of the city sidewalk system so that recommendations can be provided to help shape the city's policies, codes, priorities, and standards for sidewalks.
• The EPA will provide Trenton with a "Parking Audit" workshop.  The workshop will assist Trenton with managing parking supply and applying strategies for making the best use of parking for existing and planned land uses.
• Passaic County will receive assistance with a "Green Streets Strategy".  This workshop will lead Passaic County communities through actions to manage stormwater.

 Today’s announcement marks the second round of Building Blocks assistance. Thirty-two other communities were named in the first round in April 2011. This year, the EPA selected 56 communities from 350 applicants through a competitive process in consultation with EPA’s regional offices, HUD, DOT, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

More information on the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities: http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/buildingblocks.htm

More information on the Partnership for Sustainable Communities: http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov

Follow EPA Region 2 on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/eparegion2 and visit our Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/eparegion2

12-031                                                             # # #

Smart Growth Technical Assistance to Onslow County, NC

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 6, 2012

Onslow County, NC is Among Recipients of $750,000 in Smart Growth Assistance Provided by EPA

MEDIA CONTACT: Dawn Harris-Young, (404) 562-8421, harris-young.dawn@epa.gov

ATLANTA — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced that Onslow County, NC will receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program.  Nationally, 56 communities in 26 states will each receive the assistance from EPA-funded private-sector experts.  The technical experts will work with the communities on actions they can take to improve the economy, the environment, and quality of life.  Some examples may include improving pedestrian access and safety, incorporating green infrastructure, or conducting an economic and fiscal health assessment.  

Onslow County is receiving assistance with Smart Growth Zoning Codes for Small Cities and Rural Areas.  This assistance offers solutions that the county can make to their zoning codes and planning documents to get development that protects their character and quality of life.

Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities is a project of the Partnership for Sustainable Communities among EPA, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The interagency collaboration coordinates federal investments in infrastructure, facilities, and services to get better results for communities and use taxpayer money more efficiently.  The partnership is helping communities across the country create more housing choices, make transportation more efficient and reliable, reinforce existing investments, and support vibrant and healthy neighborhoods that attract businesses.

This announcement marks the second round of Building Blocks assistance. Thirty-two other communities were named in the first round in April 2011. EPA selected the 56 communities from 350 applicants through a competitive process in consultation with EPA’s regional offices, HUD, DOT, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

More information on the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities:

http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/buildingblocks.htm

More information on the Partnership for Sustainable Communities:  http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov

Smart Growth Technical Assistance to Greensboro, NC

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 6, 2012

Greensboro, NC is Among Recipients of $750,000 in Smart Growth Assistance Provided by EPA

MEDIA CONTACT: Dawn Harris-Young, (404) 562-8421, harris-young.dawn@epa.gov

ATLANTA — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that Greensboro, NC will receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program.  Nationally, 56 communities in 26 states will each receive the assistance from EPA-funded private-sector experts.  The technical experts will work with the communities on actions they can take to improve the economy, the environment, and quality of life.  Some examples may include improving pedestrian access and safety, incorporating green infrastructure, or conducting an economic and fiscal health assessment.  

Greensboro is receiving assistance with Smart Growth Guidelines for Sustainable Design and Development.  This assistance will help the community understand the key principles and decisions at the location, site, and building levels that can result in a more sustainable plan or development proposal.
 
Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities is a project of the Partnership for Sustainable Communities among EPA, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The interagency collaboration coordinates federal investments in infrastructure, facilities, and services to get better results for communities and use taxpayer money more efficiently.  The partnership is helping communities across the country create more housing choices, make transportation more efficient and reliable, reinforce existing investments, and support vibrant and healthy neighborhoods that attract businesses.

This announcement marks the second round of Building Blocks assistance. Thirty-two other communities were named in the first round in April 2011. EPA selected the 56 communities from 350 applicants through a competitive process in consultation with EPA’s regional offices, HUD, DOT, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

More information on the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities:

http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/buildingblocks.htm

More information on the Partnership for Sustainable Communities:  http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov

Smart Growth Technical Assistance to Dunwoody, GA

From the EPA:


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 6, 2012

Dunwoody, GA is Among Recipients of $750,000 in Smart Growth Assistance Provided by EPA

MEDIA CONTACT: Dawn Harris-Young, (404) 562-8421, harris-young.dawn@epa.gov

ATLANTA — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that Dunwoody, GA will receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program.  Nationally, 56 communities in 26 states will each receive the assistance from EPA-funded private-sector experts.  The technical experts will work with the communities on actions they can take to improve the economy, the environment, and quality of life.  Some examples may include improving pedestrian access and safety, incorporating green infrastructure, or conducting an economic and fiscal health assessment.  

Dunwoody will use the Green Building Toolkit to assist in the identification and removal of barriers in the permitting processes for sustainable designs and green buildings.

Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities is a project of the Partnership for Sustainable Communities among EPA, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The interagency collaboration coordinates federal investments in infrastructure, facilities, and services to get better results for communities and use taxpayer money more efficiently.  The partnership is helping communities across the country create more housing choices, make transportation more efficient and reliable, reinforce existing investments, and support vibrant and healthy neighborhoods that attract businesses.

This announcement marks the second round of Building Blocks assistance. Thirty-two other communities were named in the first round in April 2011. EPA selected the 56 communities from 350 applicants through a competitive process in consultation with EPA’s regional offices, HUD, DOT, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

More information on the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities:

http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/buildingblocks.htm

More information on the Partnership for Sustainable Communities:  http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov

Smart Growth Technical Assistance to Daytona Beach, FL

From the EPA:


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 6, 2012

Daytona Beach, FL is Among Recipients of $750,000 in Smart Growth Assistance Provided by EPA

MEDIA CONTACT: Dawn Harris-Young, (404) 562-8421, harris-young.dawn@epa.gov

ATLANTA — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that Daytona Beach, FL will receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program.  Nationally, 56 communities in 26 states will each receive the assistance from EPA-funded private-sector experts.  The technical experts will work with the communities on actions they can take to improve the economy, the environment, and quality of life.  Some examples may include improving pedestrian access and safety, incorporating green infrastructure, or conducting an economic and fiscal health assessment.  

Daytona Beach is receiving assistance in the development of a walking audit, which will help form a vision for short and long-term improvements to sidewalks and streets.

Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities is a project of the Partnership for Sustainable Communities among EPA, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The interagency collaboration coordinates federal investments in infrastructure, facilities, and services to get better results for communities and use taxpayer money more efficiently.  The partnership is helping communities across the country create more housing choices, make transportation more efficient and reliable, reinforce existing investments, and support vibrant and healthy neighborhoods that attract businesses.

This announcement marks the second round of Building Blocks assistance. Thirty-two other communities were named in the first round in April 2011. EPA selected the 56 communities from 350 applicants through a competitive process in consultation with EPA’s regional offices, HUD, DOT, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

More information on the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities:

http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/buildingblocks.htm

More information on the Partnership for Sustainable Communities:  http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov

Smart Growth Technical Assistance to Wakulla County, FL

News release from EPA:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 6, 2012

Wakulla County, FL is Among Recipients of $750,000 in Smart Growth Assistance Provided by EPA

MEDIA CONTACT: Dawn Harris-Young, (404) 562-8421, harris-young.dawn@epa.gov

ATLANTA — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that Wakulla County, FL will receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program.  Nationally, 56 communities in 26 states will each receive the assistance from EPA-funded private-sector experts.  The technical experts will work with the communities on actions they can take to improve the economy, the environment, and quality of life.  Some examples may include improving pedestrian access and safety, incorporating green infrastructure, or conducting an economic and fiscal health assessment.  

Wakulla County is receiving assistance with Smart Growth Zoning Codes for Small Cities and Rural Areas.  This assistance offers solutions that the county can make to their zoning codes and planning documents to get development that protects their character and quality of life.

Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities is a project of the Partnership for Sustainable Communities among EPA, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The interagency collaboration coordinates federal investments in infrastructure, facilities, and services to get better results for communities and use taxpayer money more efficiently.  The partnership is helping communities across the country create more housing choices, make transportation more efficient and reliable, reinforce existing investments, and support vibrant and healthy neighborhoods that attract businesses.

This announcement marks the second round of Building Blocks assistance. Thirty-two other communities were named in the first round in April 2011. EPA selected the 56 communities from 350 applicants through a competitive process in consultation with EPA’s regional offices, HUD, DOT, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). 

More information on the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities:

http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/buildingblocks.htm

More information on the Partnership for Sustainable Communities:  http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov

Smart Growth Technical Assistance to Port Arthur, TX

From EPA Region 6:

Port Arthur is Among Recipients of $750,000 in

Smart Growth Assistance Provided by EPA

(DALLAS – February 3, 2012) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today named 56 communities in 26 states that will receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program. Port Arthur, Texas, is one of the communities selected to receive assistance from EPA-funded private-sector experts. The technical experts will work with the communities on actions they can take to improve the economy, the environment, and quality of life. Some examples may include improving pedestrian access and safety, incorporating green infrastructure, or conducting an economic and fiscal health assessment.  

 

Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities is a project of the Partnership for Sustainable Communities among EPA, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The interagency collaboration coordinates federal investments in infrastructure, facilities, and services to get better results for communities and use taxpayer money more efficiently. The partnership is helping communities across the country create more housing choices, make transportation more efficient and reliable, reinforce existing investments, and support vibrant and healthy neighborhoods that attract businesses.

 

Port Arthur is receiving assistance in the development of a walking audit, which will help form a vision for short- and long- term improvements to sidewalks and streets.

Today’s announcement marks the second round of Building Blocks assistance. Thirty-two other communities were named in the first round in April 2011. EPA selected the 56 communities from 350 applicants through a competitive process in consultation with EPA’s regional offices, HUD, DOT, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

 

More information on the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities: http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/buildingblocks.htm

More information on the Partnership for Sustainable Communities: http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov

More about activities in EPA Region 6 is available at http://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/region6.html

EPA audio file is available at http://www.epa.gov/region6/6xa/podcast/feb2012.html

# # #

Smart Growth Technical Assistance to Corpus Christi

From EPA Region 6:

Corpus Christi is Among Recipients of $750,000 in Smart Growth Assistance Provided by EPA

(DALLAS - February 3, 2012) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today named 56 communities in 26 states that will receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program. Corpus Christi, Texas, is one of the communities selected to receive assistance from EPA-funded private-sector experts. The technical experts will work with the communities on actions they can take to improve the economy, the environment, and quality of life. Some examples may include improving pedestrian access and safety, incorporating green infrastructure, or conducting an economic and fiscal health assessment.  

 

Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities is a project of the Partnership for Sustainable Communities among EPA, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The interagency collaboration coordinates federal investments in infrastructure, facilities, and services to get better results for communities and use taxpayer money more efficiently. The partnership is helping communities across the country create more housing choices, make transportation more efficient and reliable, reinforce existing investments, and support vibrant and healthy neighborhoods that attract businesses.

 

Corpus Christi is receiving assistance in the development of a walking audit, which will help form a vision for short- and long- term improvements to sidewalks and streets.

Today’s announcement marks the second round of Building Blocks assistance. Thirty-two other communities were named in the first round in April 2011. EPA selected the 56 communities from 350 applicants through a competitive process in consultation with EPA’s regional offices, HUD, DOT, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

More information on the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities: http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/buildingblocks.htm

More information on the Partnership for Sustainable Communities: http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov

More about activities in EPA Region 6 is available at http://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/region6.html

EPA audio file is available at http://www.epa.gov/region6/6xa/podcast/feb2012.html

# # #

Smart Growth Technical Assistance to Baton Rouge

From EPA Region 6:

Baton Rouge is Among Recipients of $750,000 in Smart Growth Assistance Provided by EPA

(DALLAS - February 3, 2012) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today named 56 communities in 26 states that will receive technical assistance through the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program. Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is one of the communities selected to receive assistance from EPA-funded private-sector experts. The technical experts will work with the communities on actions they can take to improve the economy, the environment, and quality of life. Some examples may include improving pedestrian access and safety, incorporating green infrastructure, or conducting an economic and fiscal health assessment.  

 

Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities is a project of the Partnership for Sustainable Communities among EPA, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The interagency collaboration coordinates federal investments in infrastructure, facilities, and services to get better results for communities and use taxpayer money more efficiently. The partnership is helping communities across the country create more housing choices, make transportation more efficient and reliable, reinforce existing investments, and support vibrant and healthy neighborhoods that attract businesses.

 

Baton Rouge is receiving assistance in the development of parking audits, which help the city manage parking supply and apply strategies for making the best use of parking for existing and planned land uses.

Today’s announcement marks the second round of Building Blocks assistance. Thirty-two other communities were named in the first round in April 2011. EPA selected the 56 communities from 350 applicants through a competitive process in consultation with EPA’s regional offices, HUD, DOT, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

More information on the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities: http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/buildingblocks.htm

More information on the Partnership for Sustainable Communities: http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov

More about activities in EPA Region 6 is available at http://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/region6.html

EPA audio file is available at http://www.epa.gov/region6/6xa/podcast/feb2012.html

# # #