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BCD Council of Governments March 2010
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The BCDCOG in brief
Welcome to the BCD Council of Governments digital newsletter. This newsletter will be published once a month to bring you highlights of projects and activities being undertaken at the agency. Should you have any questions or would like to request additional information, please dont hesitate to contact us.
 
Transportation Enhancement Applications being accepted
 
Goose Creek

The BCDCOG is requesting submittals of applications for Transportation Enhancement projects. The Enhancement Program improves the quality of life in communities across the CHATS planning area by providing communities the means to take on projects that might not otherwise be possible. Its projects have been successful both in preserving and beautifying the best of our transportation resources and in solving problems that affect the daily use of the transportation system. This system might include anything from bike lanes and sidewalks (as shown above) to rail corridors and highways. Applications for funding must be delivered to the BCDCOG offices by 5pm on April 9th. More information can be found on the BCDCOG website or contact Jeff Burns at the BCDCOG office.

BCDCOG Revolving Loan Funds Available
 
The BCDCOG's Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) currently has funds to loan. The RLF's primary goal is job creation and retention. It is a federally initiated, state-backed program designed to assist businesses whose projects should improve the tri-county economy. Eligible uses for loans include the purchase of equipment and land and the improvement of real estate and building facilities. The RLF specializes in gap financing, or resolving cash shortages that would prevent a successful closing. The RLF can assist with start-up businesses or the expansion of an exisiting business. Contact us today or visit our website for more information.
Lawnmower Exchange to be held
 
Did you know that lawn and garden equipment is the leading source of off-road air pollution in the United States? You can do your part to "Mow Down Pollution" in the Lowcountry by participating in the second annual Lawn Mower Exchange for the BCD Region. Residents areMowers invited to trade in their gasoline-powered mowers for a discount on the purchase of a new, energy-efficient, cordless electric mower. This year three companies will have mowers available: Black and Decker, Earthwise, and Neuton. Also availalbe for purchase will be reel mowers and electric and propane powered yard tools.
 
This event will take place as part of the Tri-County Carolina Yard Experience on March 13th from 9am-2pm at the Ladson Exchange Park in Ladson. If you would like more information, please contact Randy Cook with DHEC at (843) 953-0150.
CHATS Long Range Transportation Plan Survey Results Released
 
LRTPThe CHATS Long Range Transportation Plan update is continuing. A series of public meetings were held around the region and a survey was published to capture citizens opinions on transportation issues affecting the region. In order to make sure that the community was adequately represented, this survey was widely distributed to citizens via newspaper articles, community newsletters, civic organizations, public libraries, Chambers of Commerce, and municipal contact. The survey results can be found by clicking here.
 Please contact Jeffrey Burns (843-529-0400) with any questions or for further information.
Becoming a Bicycle Friendly Community
 
The League of American Bicyclists Bicycle Friendly Community Program provides incentives, hands-on assistance, and award recognition for communities that actively support bicycling. A Bicycle Friendly Community welcomes cyclists by providing safe accommodation for cycling and encouraging people to bike for transporation and recreation. Applications must be submitted online. To be included in the next review cycle and possibly join those communities earning the award, submit the Bicycle Friendly Community application by July 16, 2010. For more information on the BFC Program, click here or contact Vonie Gilreath at 843-529-0400.
In This Issue
Transportation Enhancement Applications being Accepted
BCDCOG Revolving Loan Funds Available
Lawnmower Exchange to be held
CHATS LRTP Survey Results Released
Become a Bicycle Friendly Community
Featured Article
Quick Links
 
Facebook
Faith-Based Grants Summit to be held
Sen. Lindsay Graham, with support from the BCDCOG, is holding a Grants Summit for faith-based organizations to learn about available grant opportunities. The event will be held on March 16th from 9am-1pm. The event will take place at the Charleston Convention Center, Room 10/11 and will feature national and local speakers educating attendees on grant opportunities and processes. For more information, please contact Andrea Kozloski.

Come Visit the BCDCOG at the Black Expo

The BCDCOG will participate in the 11th Annual Black Expo being held at the North Charleston Colisuem on March 11-13th. Staff will provide information on the BCDCOG's Revolving Loan Fund, the Trident Smart Ride Program, the Minority Business Partnership, and Community and Economic Development resources. The anticipated attendance of the Black Exp os 25,000 participants. Click here for more information.

 Town of Jamestown Awarded a Rural Transportation Enhancement Grant

The Town of Jamestown received funding under the SCDOT Rural Transportation Enhancement Program. The project will construct sidewalks, crosswalks, and ADA-Compliant ramps that will provide safe, non--vehicular connections between community facilities in the Town. For more information or assistance in application preparation, contact Jeff Burns