A few weeks ago, we asked what you loved about your communities. As promised, we’re highlighting some of the best or most engaging answers – though not chosen through any rigorous process. There are plenty of really interesting comments about interesting places all over the country. If you haven’t done so, check out all the … Continued
An analysis of congressional data by the Center for Neighborhood Technology, the U.S. Public Interest Research Groups and Smart Growth America shows that stimulus funds spent on public transportation were a more effective job creator than stimulus funds spent on highways. In the 10 months since the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) was signed, investing in public transportation produced twice as many jobs as investing in roads.
In an economic crisis like the one we face today, it’s more important than ever that people know how smarter growth can save communities – and all of us – money. The federal government decides how billions get spent each year in ways that affect your community. Your support helps Smart Growth America serve as your voice in these national debates. Will you consider supporting Smart Growth America as we work to change federal policy and support the work of similar groups across the country?
Sacramento-area advocate Walt Seifert sent us his account of a workshop held in Citrus Heights, CA where residents discussed complete streets – it made us tingle!
Ten years ago, the Menomonee Valley in Milwaukee, Wisconsin was dead land. Today, after many years of clever ideas, careful planning, and hard work, people are fishing in the Menomonee River again — which runs right through the heart of Milwaukee. Commuters and recreational bicyclists are using the new bike paths. There’s a soccer field and even a canoe launch. The land hasn’t merely been cleaned of environmental hazards. It’s been transformed into a place where people want to spend their leisure time.
In this week’s news round-up, we celebrate the recent achievements that continue to fuel the complete streets movement – on Capitol Hill and in communities across the country.
With your support, and with the hard work of Coalition members and the Coalition staff, we were able to celebrate many successes in 2009 that will lead to more opportunities in 2010. We hope to raise $5,000 by December 31st – can you help? If you act quickly your donation will be matched dollar for dollar by Toole Design Group.
The recession may have slowed growth in many places across the country, but the economic difficulties have only reaffirmed the need to be smarter than ever about what we build, and where we build it. Earlier this week, four municipalities from across the country were recognized by the US EPA for their innovative work in promoting smarter growth and creating places worth caring about. EPA created the National Award for Smart Growth Achievement back in 2002 to recognize outstanding and innovative approaches to development that “respect the environment, foster economic vitality, and enhance quality of life.”
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded Charlotte, NC’s Urban Street Design Guidelines – a model in complete streets planning and design – with the coveted National Award for Smart Growth Achievement in Policies and Regulations.
The purpose of this study, conducted by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, “is to identify and evaluate options for transportation funding in Minnesota during the next 20 years. As directed by the Minnesota Legislature, the study investigates the ability of existing sources of revenue to meet current and future transportation needs.”