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Upcoming Events
NOVEMBER
11/19, 6:00pm: CCRPC Commission Meeting [Agenda]
11/19, 6:00pm: Public Hearing on Major TIP Amendment (as part of CCRPC Commission Meeting) [Learn More]
11/19, 6:30pm: EPA TMDL Meeting - South Burlington [Learn More]
11/19, 7:00pm: Burlington Downtown & Residential Parking Public Meeting [Learn More]
11/27 & 11/28: CCRPC Office Closed
DECEMBER
12/2, 9:00am: CCRPC Transportation Advisory Committee Meeting
12/8, 9:00am: Milton US 7 Corridor Study Advisory Committee Meeting # 3 [Learn More]
12/25: CCRPC Office Closed
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Phones Down, Heads Up
On October 1, using a handheld portable electronic device while driving became illegal in Vermont. Make sure to know the full details of the law:
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Chittenden County Traffic Alert
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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| | Brighter Vermont Energy Tip: Program Your Thermostat |
Setting your thermostat back by 7-10 degrees for 8 hours a day can save up to 10% on your heating bills. This is a whole lot easier to do with a programmable thermostat. If you don't have one and aren't sure what features to look for, visit thermostatcenter.com to learn more and compare different brands. NOTE: You can get a perfectly wonderful programmable thermostat for under $75 - and you'll probably save twice that amount in the first year!
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| | Winter/Holiday Volunteer Opportunities | |
Looking for ways to volunteer this winter? Find an Adopt-A-Family or holiday gift program, staff an event, help with First Night or First Run, do an MLK Day service project and much more.
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| | Community Transportation Opportunities | |
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. Would you like 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.
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| | Have You Joined Front Porch Forum? | |
Front Porch Forum's mission is to help neighbors connect and build community. It does that by hosting regional networks of online neighborhood forums. Common sense and a growing body of research tell us that well-connected neighborhoods are friendlier places to live, with less crime, healthier residents, higher property values, and better service from local government and public utilities.
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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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CCRPC Staff
Charlie Baker, Executive Director
Michele Boomhower, Assistant/MPO Director
Dan Albrecht, Senior Planner
Pam Brangan, Senior Planner
Jason Charest, Senior Transportation Planning Engineer
Eleni Churchill, Senior Transportation Planning Engineer
Forest Cohen, Business Manager
Bryan Davis, Senior Transportation Planner
Chris Dubin, Transportation Planner
Bernie Ferenc, Transportation Business Manager
Christine Forde, Senior Transportation Planner
Peter Keating, Senior Transportation Planner
Lee Krohn, Senior Planner
Emma Long, Communications Manager
Regina Mahony, Senior Planner
Melanie Needle, Senior Planner
Sai Sarepalli, Transportation Planning Engineer
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Today, a mix of housing financers, advocates, developers, planners and tenants from all over Vermont will gather for the Vermont Statewide Housing Conference in Burlington. This conference will cover state and federal housing policy, housing's connection to health care, and community development -- all important components in this conversation.
Housing is a critical need in our region. When we examined this issue during the development of our ECOS Plan, we found that we need to be renovating and developing at least 500 housing units per year to address existing and future demands and decrease housing costs in Chittenden County. In the three years that we have been tracking new housing numbers, we have gone from about 300 units in 2010 to over 500 in 2012. We need to continue this pace of development to achieve our goal to increase the opportunities for safe, decent, energy efficient, affordable, accessible and fair housing for all types of households in diverse neighborhoods.
At the CCRPC, we work closely with the municipalities we serve to strive for planning that meets the current and emerging needs of our County and incorporates location efficiency. Communities are most efficient when they include compact neighborhoods with mixed land uses, a concentration of retail and service options, access to broad transit choices, and interconnected street networks -- enabling people to meet their daily needs while using less energy. As buildings and transportation together account for about 70% of energy use in the US and are responsible for 62% of greenhouse gas emissions, location efficiency can save people money on household and energy costs, as well as help to reduce our impact on climate change.
The ECOS Plan encourages future growth in the center/metro/village planning areas in an effort to maintain historic settlement patterns and respect agricultural and natural lands. For the past three years, Chittenden County has exceeded its ECOS target for 80% of new housing development occurring in areas planned for growth, averaging about 85%. This is a testament to the focused development efforts of our municipalities and the private and public sector developers working in our communities.
For more infomation on current and future housing needs and data in Vermont, go to www.housingdata.org.
Best regards,
Charlie Baker, Executive Director
Chittenden County RPC | Michele Boomhower, Assistant/MPO Director
Chittenden County RPC |
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Of Note
Chittenden County RPC Receives National Outstanding Overall Achievement Award
The Chittenden County RPC received the award for Outstanding Overall Achievement at the 2014 Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations (AMPO) Annual Conference in Atlanta, GA October 21-24. The award recognizes a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) which serves an area of under 200,000 in population; there are 230 MPOs of this size nationwide. [Learn More]
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Transportation News
Implementing ECOS Strategy 2
Downtown Burlington Parking Changes in Effect
On November 1, the City of Burlington initiated the first phase of changes to the downtown parking system, including new credit card reading parking meters, improved garage facilities, new rates, and new hours of enforcement. Visit parkburlington.com for full details.
Tips & Tricks for Winter Bike Riding from Local Motion
When the temperature drops and the snow begins to fall, winter bike season starts. Winter riding can be lots of fun and a great way to get outside and escape the confines of your car. [Learn More]
Year 2014 Town Highway Maps Available
The Year 2014 Town Highway Maps have been completed. This year VTrans generated a complete set of 319 new maps, some of which had not been produced since 2003. The 2014 maps reflect any changes reported to VTrans during the 2014 mileage process. The PDF version of these new maps can be accessed through the VTrans Mapping Unit website.
Free Webinar on Designing for Older Road Users
The Federal Highway Administration and the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center are hosting a free webinar on designing roads for older adults on Thursday, November 20 from 1-2:30pm. This session will focus on how streets and highways can be designed to better meet the needs of older road users. [Learn More & Register]
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:
- 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 Parking Management Plan
- Burlington Residential Parking Study
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
Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce small BIZ VT summit is Back for Second Year in 2015
The 2015 small BIZ VT summit will take place on March 11, 2015. The day focuses on opportunities for small business owners and future owners. [Learn More]
Vermont Entrepreneur Resource: Vermont Technology Alliance
The Vermont Technology Alliance is a non-profit membership association that serves as a voice for technology in Vermont. vtTA supports and promotes growing Vermont technology companies and jobs. [Learn More]
Vermont Food Economy Grew Three Times Overall State Economy
The Vermont Farm to Plate Network convened in late October to review the progress toward implementing the State of Vermont's Farm to Plate Strategic Plan. [Learn More]
November 29 is Small Business Saturday
In 2010, American Express founded Small Business Saturday, encouraging people to shop at small businesses on the Saturday following Thanksgiving. The day has grown into a powerful movement, and many small businesses in Vermont and beyond participate. [Learn More]
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Quality of Place
Implementing ECOS Strategy 2
VHCB Awards $3.65 Million for Affordable Housing & Land Conservation
The Vermont Housing and Conservation Board has approved $3.65 million in grants and deferred loans to create, preserve or rehabilitate 152 affordable homes and to conserve 1,198 acres of farmland and working forest. Among the recipients are COTS, Housing Vermont, the Burlington Housing Authority and the Champlain Housing Trust. [Learn More]
Our Town Grant Now Open for Applications
The National Endowment for the Arts created the Our Town grant program to fund creative placemaking projects that contribute to the livability of communities. Our Town prioritizes partnerships between arts organizations, and public or private organizations striving to achieve livability goals for communities. The application deadline is December 15, 2014. [Learn More]
VCLF Loaned $837,212 in Vermont in 3rd Quarter
The Vermont Community Loan Fund (VCLF) loaned $837,212 in the 3rd quarter of 2014 to Vermont's small businesses, community facilities, child care programs and developers of affordable housing. These loans have created or preserved quality jobs, affordable homes, quality child care and other essential services for Vermonters throughout the state. [Learn More]
New ECOS in Action Video: Affordable Housing Needs & Next Steps for Chittenden County
Vermont Housing & Finance Agency's Leslie Black-Plumeau and Housing Vermont's Kenn Sassorossi discussed Chittenden County's affordable housing needs with CCTV reporter Mike Cohen on October 30. The live show focused on the ECOS project's impacts throughout the County to analyze and address the most pressing issues facing residents. [Learn More]
Free Download: Rewriting the Rural Landscape
You can download a recording of the hour-long webinar that focuses on Ben Winchester's research on rural migration trends and the impacts they have on social and economic opportunity. Ben is a research fellow for the University of Minnesota Extension, Center for Community Vitality. [Listen Now]
planBTV South End Crawl: November 21 & 22
Dozens of artists and several prominent manufacturers based in the South End of Burlington are opening their doors for special tours and activities on November 21st and 22nd. Get a rare glimpse into the creative process of artists, craftspeople and companies that were founded on creative ideas. Everyone is invited to participate in one or many of the Crawl activities. [Learn More]
Vermont Planners Association Celebrates 25 Years
The Vermont Planners Association met on November 7th to commemorate their 25th anniversary and look ahead to the next 25. The VPA supports the planning profession through education, outreach, professional development opportunities and fostering an open dialogue on contemporary planning issues. [Learn More]
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Energy & Natural Resources
Implementing ECOS Strategies 3 & 4
EPA Holding Public Meetings to Discuss Next Steps in Lake Champlain Clean-Up Efforts - Chittenden County Meeting TODAY
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is hosting a series of public meetings this November to outline the next steps in Vermont's efforts to restore water quality in Lake Champlain. The EPA is working closely with the State of Vermont in preparing a formal plan to reduce phosphorus runoff into Lake Champlain by developing a "Total Maximum Daily Load" (TMDL) that will place a cap on the maximum amount of phosphorus that is allowed to enter the Lake and still meet Vermont's water quality standards. Within Chittenden County: TODAY, November 19, 6:30-8:30pm in South Burlington. [Learn More]
Efficiency Vermont Creating a 3-Year Plan with Vermonters' Input
Efficiency Vermont is creating a three year plan for Vermont's Energy Efficiency Utility -- and they want your input. Join them at one of the eight Community Forums they're hosting around the state. Within Chittenden County: December 10, 6-7:30pm in Richmond. [Learn More]
EPA's Guide on Enhancing Sustainable Communities with Green Infrastructure
The EPA has published a report titled, "Enhancing Sustainable Communities with Green Infrastructure: A Guide to Help Communities Better Manage Stormwater while Achieving Other Environmental, Public Health, Social, and Economic Benefits." The guidebook aims to help local governments, water utilities, nonprofit organizations, and other stakeholders integrate green infrastructure technology to enhance stormwater management. [Download the Report]
Hinesburg Rain Garden Construction and Planting Completed
The Hinesburg Rain Garden project, located at the intersection of Route 116 and Silver Street, was completed at the beginning of October. This project was initiated and managed by Lewis Creek Association with funding provided by Vermont's DEC Ecosystem Restoration Program. VT Ecosystem Restoration Grants are made available to Vermont municipalities, local or regional governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, and citizens groups as part of the Ecosystem Restoration Program's ongoing efforts to reduce stormwater pollution. [Learn More]
Vermont Updates Groundwater Protection Rule
Vermont's groundwater will now be better protected from pollution discharged into underground wells. In late October, the Vermont DEC issued new Underground Injection Control Rules, replacing less protective 1982 standards. The rules regulate waste below ground through Vermont's Underground Injection Control Program, authorized under the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act. [Learn More]
Community Forest Program Grant Opportunity
The U.S. Forest Service is seeking applications for the Community Forest Program. This grant program provides local and tribal governments as well as qualified non-profit organizations an opportunity to create and maintain community forests. In order to apply, eligible applicants must outline the community benefits that will be derived by community forests, which may extend to areas of land conservation, stormwater management, improved energy efficiency in the built environment, drought resilience, or other areas. Application deadline: January 16, 2015. [Learn More]
Recreational Trails Program Grant Opportunities
The federally-funded Recreational Trails Program provides grant funding to help develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities. The ANR Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation administers this program in Vermont, and anticipates approximately $500,000 being available to municipalities and non-profit organizations for projects to be completed between July 1, 2015 and December 31, 2016. Applications are due February 1, 2015. [Learn More]
Vermont Governor's Awards for Environmental Excellence Available
Applications are now being accepted for the 2015 Governor's Awards for Environmental Excellence. The annual awards honor the actions taken by Vermonters to conserve and protect natural resources, prevent pollution and promote sustainability. Applications are due February 2, 2015. [Learn More]
Contact
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Emergency Preparedness
Implementing ECOS Strategy 5
New Website: Flood Ready Vermont
Flood damage has become more common and more costly. All over the state, selectboard members, planning commission members, town officials, planners, and residents are working to address known flood risks and to avoid increasing their exposure to flood damage. Check out Flood Ready Vermont, a new website with online tools, maps and useful information to help communities become flood resilient. [Learn More]
E9-1-1 Viewer Released
The Vermont Enhanced 9-1-1 Board announced the release of E9-1-1 Viewer - an interactive web map that can also be accessed on tablets and smart phones. It's targeted for dispatchers, responders and town officers, but is also available for the general public. [Learn More]
New Weather Model Will Prepare Utilities for Severe Storms
Vermont Electric Power Co. (VELCO) is building a Vermont Weather Analytics Center, a high-resolution forecast tool that aims to provide accurate, localized weather predictions. The two-year project aims to predict weather up to two days in advance of storms, better manage the electric grid by predicting solar and wind energy generation, and perhaps boost tourism through better weather planning. [Learn More]
Are you signed up for Vermont Alert?
Vermonters have a free tool available to stay informed of pending disasters, weather conditions, public health notifications, and countless other alerts. Vermont Alert allows the public to sign up and receive notifications through a number of delivery systems, including email, text or phone. This service is particularly helpful as we approach the winter months. [Learn More & Sign Up]
Contact
For questions regarding Emergency Preparedness, including LEPC 1 or 5, please contact Lee Krohn in the CCRPC office.
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Save the Date
Milton Community Youth Coalition 3rd Annual Calcutta and Silent Auction Benefit: December 6
Join the Milton Community Youth Coalition (MCYC) for its 3rd Annual Calcutta and Silent Auction Benefit. The evening will include a stand-up comedy show, silent auction, dinner and the chance to win $1,000 in the Calcutta - all for a great cause. [Learn More]
Vermont Community Energy and Climate Action Conference: December 6
The Vermont Energy and Climate Action Network (VECAN) and University of Vermont Extension are once again hosting the annual Community Energy and Climate Action Conference -- an event aimed at inspiring, supporting and growing the statewide network of town energy committees and building the capacity and expertise of any Vermonter interested in helping the state meet its efficiency, renewable energy and climate change goals. [Learn More & Register]
2015 TRB 94th Annual Meeting: January 11-15, 2015
The 2015 TRB 94th Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. covers all transportation modes, with more than 5,000 presentations in more than 750 sessions addressing topics of interest to all attendees -- policy makers, administrators, practitioners, researchers, and representatives of government, industry, and academic institutions. The Annual Meeting, which draws attendees from throughout the United States and from more than 80 countries, is the single largest gathering of transportation practitioners and researchers in the world. This year's theme is Corridors to the Future: Transportation and Technology. [Learn More & Register]
Summit on "Creating Prosperity & Opportunity Confronting Climate Change": February 18, 2015
The Vermont Council on Rural Development is launching the Vermont Climate Economy Council at the "Creating Prosperity & Opportunity Confronting Climate Change Summit" to be held at Vermont Technical College on February 18, 2015. The conference is built on the premise that confronting climate change through innovative economic development can be a competitive strategy, one that will build national reputation, create jobs, and attract youth and entrepreneurism to the states that lead. [Learn More & Register]
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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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