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Upcoming Events
MAY
5/26: Memorial Day (CCRPC Office Closed)
JUNE
6/3, 9:00am: Transportation Advisory Committee Meeting
6/4, 5:30pm: CCRPC Executive Committee Meeting
6/11, 6:30pm: North Ave. Corridor Study Advisory Committee Meeting [Learn More]
6/18, 2:30pm: Planning Advisory Committee Meeting
6/18, 5:30pm: CCRPC Commission Annual Meeting - St. Michael's College
JULY
7/4: Independence Day (CCRPC Office Closed)
7/16, 6:00pm: CCRPC Commission Meeting
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Traffic Alert Program
Construction season is in full swing! Stay in the know by signing up for our weekly Traffic Alert emails -- your source for roadway and construction work in Chittenden
County.
Sign up today:
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| | New & Improved Vermont Information Planning Center Website |
The Vermont Planning Information Center is a clearing house of information for planning commissions, zoning boards, development review boards, their staff, and all others involved in land planning and regulation in Vermont. |
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| | Summer Volunteer Opportunities | |
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 | | VT Restaurant Week Doubles Donation to the Vermont FoodBank | |
Seven Days announced that $13,178.65 ($6,578.64 more than last year) will be donated to the Vermont FoodBank as a result of its 5th Annual Vermont Restaurant Week and a new partnership with the Vermont Community Foundation's Food and Farm Initiative.
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| | The Reality of a Hotter World | |
By Jerry Adler, Smithsonian Magazine
As global warming makes sizzling temperatures more common, will human beings be able to keep their cool?
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| | Renewable Energy Atlas of Vermont | |
The Renewable Energy Atlas of Vermont is a tool for identifying, analyzing, and visualizing existing and promising locations for renewable energy projects. You can click on a town (or several towns or county/counties) and select from a thorough suite of renewable energy options: biomass, efficiency, geothermal, hydroelectric, solar, and wind.
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'Why We Stay' in Vermont, and Why We Don't
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By Jane Lindholm, Sage Van Wing & Angela Evancie, VPR
There are two types of people in this state: those who stay here, and those who leave.
Well, maybe it's not so simple. Some people leave and come back; some people leave but still call Vermont home; some people boomerang to and fro for years before returning to settle down for good; some people arrive from "away" and set down their own roots.
But the tension between staying and going has always preoccupied us...
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| | Green Mountain Power Corp. Offers Bike-Specific Employee Benefit | |
In order to promote employee wellness, Green Mountain Power Corporation provides full- and part-time employees the opportunity to apply for a no-interest loan to purchase bicycles -- just another example of an employer being creative and supportive of employees' wellness and commute options!
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American Red Cross
 Hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm; Saturday, 7:30am-1pm
Call or go online to schedule an appointment today.
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With the close of the legislative session on May 10, the CCRPC would like to thank lawmakers for passing a number of bills that help advance implementation of the Chittenden County ECOS Plan. Here are a few notable highlights from this year's session:
ECOS STRATEGY 1: IMPROVE & STRENGTHEN THE ECONOMIC SYSTEMS OF OUR REGION
H.885: A $1.4 billion general fund budget was passed, including $4.5 million for the Vermont Enterprise Fund for incentives to attract or retain major employers, and $500k for an entrepreneurial lending program within the Vermont Economic Development Authority. The bill also includes a 6% funding increase for regional planning organizations and regional development corporations.
S.220: The jobs bill contains a number of initiatives that make it easier to do business with the state, including increases in lending for start-up and growth businesses and loan forgiveness for students who graduate and become employed in key sectors in Vermont - all measures that encourage recent graduates to stay and work in the state.
ECOS STRATEGY 2: STRIVE FOR 80% OF NEW DEVELOPMENT IN AREAS PLANNED FOR GROWTH
H.809 improves the state's Growth Center designation program and integrates the designation process into the municipal planning process - a move intended to help communities avoid costly redundant planning efforts.
H.823 promotes downtown development by providing regulatory benefits for development in designated centers, while creating stricter Act 250 permitting requirements for development outside them. As passed, H.823 also updates Act 250 Criteria 5 (transportation) to allow a District Commission to require that a project include transportation demand strategies and incorporate alternative transportation modes, such as bicycle or walking paths.
H.740: The Transportation Impact Fee bill was introduced to ensure that the costs to develop transportation infrastructure were apportioned equitably to the users of the system (including traffic generated by development projects).
H.702 expands the state's successful net metering program and also makes it easier to build solar energy projects on capped landfills. This measure opens the doors for Vermont homeowners, businesses, communities and farmers to go solar, save money over time, feed clean energy back onto the grid, and be part of the state's clean energy future.
ECOS STRATEGY 3: IMPROVE THE SAFETY, WATER QUALITY, & HABITAT OF OUR WATER BODIES
H.526 was designed to protect our shorelands by designating a "protected shoreland area" within 250 feet of the water level of any lake greater than 10 acres. The bill requires a permit or registration before clearing land within that area, with a general prohibition on clearing land within 100 feet of the water.
H.650 created the Ecosystem Restoration and Water Quality Improvement Special Fund, which will be used to assist municipalities with monitoring, education, and other requirements of the MS4 permitting program.
ECOS STRATEGY 7: DEVELOP SYSTEMS TO MAKE THE MOST EFFICIENT USE OF TAXPAYER DOLLARS
S.293 establishes population level results for the state and outlines an annual reporting process to ensure that state investments are achieving results.
As we continue to work toward our vision for a healthy, inclusive and prosperous Chittenden County, we are encouraged by the progress made during this year's legislative session and look forward to the resultant improvements that lie ahead.
Best regards,
Charlie Baker
Executive Director
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Of Note
Vermont Public Health Association Annual Meeting, June 4: Achieving Health, Equity and Sustainability through Health in All Policies
Dr. Aaron Wernham from the RWJ/Pew Health Impact Project is coming to the VtPHA Annual Meeting on June 4th at the Capital Plaza in Montpelier to talk about Health Impact Assessment and Health in All Policies. Dr. Wernham is a national leader and advisor in using Health Impact Assessment as a tool for incorporating health considerations into decision-making across sectors and policy areas. [Learn More & Register]
Burlington's We All Belong Program Applications Due June 4
The We All Belong Program is in its third year working with Burlington area non-profits, schools and city departments to help them create more inclusive workplaces and to more effectively serve Burlington's ever diversifying community. The program is designed for non-profits and municipal departments that demonstrate a commitment to diversity and equity and are looking for help to make system-level changes. [Learn More & Apply]
Leadership for People of Color Program Graduates Visit State House
On Friday, May 9, graduates of the Chittenden County Leadership for People of Color program visited the State House to be recognized by the House of Representatives for their efforts. Graduates met with Governor Shumlin and Secretary of State Jim Condos to discuss the importance of the program, which is designed to prepare participants to become more actively involved in the decisions that impact our community. The graduates completed a nine month leadership training program sponsored by CCRPC, VT Department of Health, Fletcher Allen, and United Way of Chittenden County with guest presenters from local, regional and state agencies and organizations. The program was coordinated by Sara Osaba, a CCRPC AmeriCorps employee.
 Open Studio on the Lake Champlain Byway: May 24 & 25Participating artist studios located along and near the Lake Champlain Byway will be open from 10am to 5pm. Meet the makers of fine furniture, pottery, hand-made rugs, turned wooden bowls and more, and take a behind-the-scenes look at how it's made. [Learn More]
2014 Vermontivate! Winners Announced
Vermontivate! ended its six-week run on May 3, with South Burlington and the Albany Community School coming out on top of the town and school divisions, respectively. Though the game itself is over for the year, participants can continue the momentum year-round. "We've come to realize that part of what Vermontivate! does is grow strong teams and leaders, help them identify sustainability-related issues in their community, and set goals for addressing them," said Kathy Blume, co-founder of Vermontivate!. [Learn More]
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Transportation News
Implementing ECOS Strategy 2
2014 Bike/Ped Grant Application Available
VTrans has released the application for this year's bicycle and pedestrian grant program. The program provides funding for either a scoping study or a design/construction project for a number of facilities, including bicycle lanes, shoulders, sidewalks, pedestrian crossing improvements, and more. Final applications are due June 27. [Learn More]
Neighbor Rides Community Transportation
 1 out of every 5 seniors aged 65 and older no longer drives, yet over 80% of suburban and rural Chittenden County elders have limited transit access. Want to help them with their transportation needs? Volunteer drivers use their personal vehicles to take seniors and people with disabilities to medical appointments, grocery stores and life-enriching activities throughout Chittenden County. [Learn More & Volunteer]
CCRPC Sidewalk Grant Program Awards
In the most recent round of the sidewalk grant program, the CCRPC made the following partial awards:
- Colchester: $75,000 for Water Tower Hill
- Burlington: $100,000 for Colchester Avenue
- Williston: $75,000 for VT Route 2A south of Taft Corners
- Jericho: $50,000 for Browns Trace Road
This program is now in its 10th year and has distributed over $2.6 million to 10 different towns in 34 separate grants. [Learn More]
Winooski Gateways Project Underway
 Over the coming year, the CCRPC, the City of Winooski, and a consultant team will work with the citizens and stakeholders of Winooski to create an innovative zoning regulation to guide growth for the future. This exciting project is focused on the overall character -- building form, land-use, and transportation -- of the Route 15, Route 7 and Malletts Bay Ave. corridors (not including downtown and the circulator). The Public Design Charrette will take place from Friday, June 13th to Wednesday, June 18th. Please contact Regina Mahony with any questions.
Burlington's Mayor Promotes Active Transportation Options
On May 9, Burlington Mayor Miro Weinberger promoted active transportation options by leading the 3rd annual Mayor's Multi-Modal Tour around the City by foot, bike, bus, electric vehicle, and vanpool. At the conclusion of the tour during a news conference at the ArtsRiot restaurant and events space, Mayor Weinberger highlighted the completion of the City's short-term pedestrian safety improvements, and other news about partnership and long-term plans.
Two-Part Video Series on Parking in Downtown Burlington
In late April, Channel 5 News ran a two-part series on parking in Burlington, highlighting ideas for vacant spaces and lots -- even during peak hours -- and the possibility of a more high-tech parking experience downtown, including custom smartphone apps, in-car meters, and pay via phone services.
Transportation Project News
Recent Completed Scoping Studies - Final Reports Available
New Transportation Projects Underway
The following new projects are getting underway, and websites for each will be available within the coming months:
- Winooski Form-Based Code & Transportation Master Plan Visioning for the Gateways to Winooski
- Regional Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) Plan Update
- Charlotte Village Area Projects, including: 1.) Intersection of US7/Ferry Road/Church Hill; 2.) Park & Ride Scoping Study; 3.) Sidewalk Scoping Study, Ferry Road from US7 to Greenbush Road
- Underhill Sidewalk Implementation Project
- Milton Sidewalk Scoping Studies
- Hinesburg Sidewalk Scoping Studies
- Burlington Downtown TDM Plan for City Employees & Businesses
- Burlington Parking Management Plan
- Burlington Residential Parking Study
- Plan BTV South End
If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact Emma Long: elong@ccrpcvt.org.
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Economy
Implementing ECOS Strategy 1
New Start-Up Hub Announced for Burlington
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From left, Rep. Peter Welch, Sen. Patrick Leahy, Mayor Miro Weinberger and Gov. Peter Shumlin listen as Frank Cioffi of the Greater Burlington Industrial Corp. launches the opening of VCET @ BTV, a co-working space in Burlington. Photo by Paul Heintz
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A new co-working space is opening in downtown Burlington this summer, city and state leaders announced on May 20th. The incubator is conceived as a headquarters for high-tech start-up companies, a workspace for other professionals and a technology and business support center for all. Co-working is a model for sharing space and fostering collaboration among creative professionals. [Learn More]
Vermont Career Connections Recruitment Event: June 5
The Vermont Recruiters Association and the Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce announce the first Vermont Career Connections recruitment event. This free event will focus on career opportunities with local companies that embrace Vermont's "Work hard, play hard" motto and the culture of work/life balance. A wide range of versatile, cutting edge and stable Vermont employers will be on site to share their missions, visions, cultures and professions, as well as showcase the beauty and economic vitality of our state. Thursday, June 5th, 1-7pm, at Hotel Vermont in Burlington. [Learn More & Register]
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Quality of Place
Implementing ECOS Strategy 2
The Vermont Community Development Association 2014 Spring Meeting: May 28 -- REGISTRATION DEADLINE THURSDAY, MAY 22
In a first-ever collaboration between the Vermont Community Development Association and the Vermont Downtown Program, the VCDA will be hosting its spring meeting: "Downtowns -- Great Places to Live and Work -- But They Don't Happen By Accident" on Wednesday, May 28 at the Middlebury Inn. [Learn More & Register]
STAR Communities Announces Fall 2014 Leadership Program
STAR Communities is launching another round of its popular Leadership Program. Selected communities will receive extensive support from STAR Communities staff and learn from one another as they pursue certification in the nation's first comprehensive rating system for measuring local sustainability. The City of Burlington is currently participating in the 2013 program to pursue STAR certification of its sustainability efforts. Applications are due May 30, 2014. [Learn More]
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Energy & Natural Resources
Implementing ECOS Strategy 4
CCRPC Approves Climate Action Guide
The CCRPC Board approved the Chittenden County Regional Climate Action Guide this month. The Climate Action Guide establishes a common understanding of the future climate change predictions for the Northeast.
The focus of the guide is on actions we can take as individuals, municipalities/regional entities, and businesses to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt in ways that make us more resilient to a changing climate. These actions range from making changes to how we get around, power/heat our buildings, and alter the natural landscape. [View the Guide]
EPA Sticks to its Call for State Resources to Clean Up Lake Champlain
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sent a letter to the state earlier in May calling on the Shumlin administration to come up with money to implement the proposed Lake Champlain clean-up plan. The letter calls for a detailed funding plan, greater phosphorus load reductions from wastewater treatment facilities and a signed letter of commitment from the governor to accompany a revised plan by May 30. The state is working with the EPA to draft a new Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) plan to set phosphorous pollution targets by late summer.
Burlington to Make Major Stormwater Improvements
It's an all too common sight, Burlington streets turning to rivers after a heavy rain -- and it's the same spots that always get hit the hardest. Fox44's Michael Page presents Burlington: Hidden City, a historical look at why these floods happen, and what's being done now to make major stormwater improvements. [Learn More]
Chittenden County Stream Team Rain Barrel Workshop: June 14
Pollution from storm water runoff is a challenge that has long faced the state of Vermont. Waterways like Lake Champlain can be damaged by storm water that has picked up chemicals and other harmful material. There are a few measures homeowners can take to reduce their stormwater runoff, and building a rain barrel is one. [Learn More & Register]
Leahy Announces $230,000 for ('Great') Lake Champlain
Senator Patrick Leahy has announced $230,000 in Sea Grant funding to the University of Vermont for research and management of fisheries, water quality, invasive species control and other efforts for Lake Champlain and its surrounding watershed. [Learn More]
First Annual Vermont Water Quality Day: May 23
On May 23, to celebrate water quality, many wastewater treatment plants throughout the state are hosting open houses from 9am-2pm, encouraging citizens to learn about this essential part of modern society. In Chittenden County, participating facilities are located in Burlington, Milton, and Essex Junction. [Learn More]
New Universal Recycling Law
Vermont's new Universal Recycling law establishes uniform standards and requirements for recycling across the state that will facilitate re-use of valuable materials that would otherwise be land-filled. [Learn More]
Contact
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Emergency Preparedness
Implementing ECOS Strategy 5
Deadline to Apply for Disaster Loans in Vermont: June 2
The U.S. Small Business Administration is reminding small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private non-profit organizations of all sizes that June 2 is the application deadline for federal economic injury disaster loans available in Addison, Bennigton, Chittenden, Grand Isle and Rutland counties in Vermont as a result of excessive rain and related flooding, winds and hail that began on May 1, 2013. [Learn More]
Important Changes Regarding Vermont's Emergency Relief & Assistance Fund (ERAF)
Following the recovery from Tropical Storm Irene, the State of Vermont modified its standard for managing the State's ERAF. The new standard, which will be effective for any disaster after October 23, 2014, is structured to encourage municipalities to take four basic steps to prepare their their communities before the next disaster. [Letter from Jeb Spaulding]
>> NOTE: The CCRPC is tracking progress within Chittenden County in regards to towns meeting these eligibility requirements. Please contact Dan Albrecht at the CCRPC with any questions.
Contact
For questions regarding Emergency Preparedness, including LEPC 1 or 5, please contact Paul Luciano in the CCRPC office.
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Save the Date
2014 TRB Tools of the Trade Conference: July 21-23
The CCRPC is the local host for the 2014 Transportation Research Board's conference focusing on small- and medium-sized communities. Join us for 2 ½ days of presentations, interactive sessions, and panel discussions to enhance your transportation planning practice in small and medium sized communities. Room registration now open; conference registration opens on April 1. [Learn More]
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If you have questions, feedback, or suggested content for upcoming issues, we'd love to hear from you! Please contact us. 
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