|
Calendar
DECEMBER
12/10, 6pm: Efficiency Vermont Community Forum in Richmond
*** POSTPONED due to weather ***
12/25: CCRPC Office Closed
JANUARY
1/1: CCRPC Office Closed
1/19: CCRPC Office Closed
1/21, 6pm: CCRPC Commission Meeting
|
|
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:
|
|
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:
|
|
| | Brighter Vermont Energy Tip: Heated Windows or Historic Windows? Now You Can Have Both | |
ReSOURCE in Burlington is now a dealer and installer of Advanced Energy Panels, interior storm windows that offer an attractive and affordable way to increase energy efficiency without having to replace historic windows.
|
|
| | 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.
|
|
| | 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.
|
|
| | New Portal to Provide Broad Access to Public Data in Vermont | |
Public data abounds, but relatively little of it is publicly accessible, and even less of it is linked in a meaningful way. Spreadsheets and databases often live on closed computer networks inside individual state agencies or organizations. The information is difficult to access and analyze, and its usefulness is limited. A new web portal, Vermont Insights, aims to change that. Vermont Insights is designed to serve as a portal for about a dozen data sets on topics such as educational attainment, public health, employment, housing and transportation.
|
|
| | 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.
|
American Red Cross
 Hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm; Saturday, 7:30am-1pm
Call or go online to schedule an appointment today.
|
CCRPC Public Participation Plan
As part of our ongoing efforts to engage the public, we have completed a 2014 Public Participation Plan. This is an update to our 2008 Public Participation Plan, and provides the methodology for involving the public in our work, using both traditional and innovative outreach methods to meet the needs of our growing and increasingly diverse community.
|
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
|
|
|
 |
|
December is widely known as a time for giving. Businesses, organizations and individuals come together to address critical community needs, from food security to safe housing, to working to ensure every child has a warm coat to make it through the long Vermont winter. Within Chittenden County, there are many meaningful ways to give, participate and volunteer -- both in December and throughout the year.
One good way you can make a difference in Chittenden County this year is contributing to United Way. United Way's campaign connects businesses, employees and community partners to create lasting change in Chittenden County, addressing the impact areas of education, income and health. We are proud to support this effort. For the third year in a row, the CCRPC is proud to report 100% participation in the United Way of Chittenden County's annual campaign. We encourage you to contribute what you can to United Way or another charity of your choice to make a positive difference in our community.
As we look toward a new year and reflect on the many ways we all work collectively to improve our communities, we'd like to thank each of you for staying in touch and involved with the CCRPC throughout the year -- however large or small your connection.
Wishing you a wonderful holiday season, and a happy and fulfilling start to 2015!
Best regards,
Charlie Baker
Executive Director
Chittenden County RPC
|
|
Of Note
CCRPC Accepting FY16 UPWP Applications
The CCRPC is now accepting applications for its FY16 Unified Planning Work Program. The application and all related forms are available online. Deadline: 4:30pm, Friday, January 23, 2015. [Learn More]
|
Transportation News
Implementing ECOS Strategy 2
UVM Sustainable Transportation & Systems Planning Courses - Spring 2015
Courses include: Risk and Behavior in Transportation; Transportation Demand Modeling; and Transportation and Air Quality. For more information on these courses, visit www.uvm.edu/trc or email transctr@uvm.edu. Burlington Parking Studies Update  The CCRPC is working with the City to take a look at parking issues that have not been closely examined in many years. One of the studies is a comprehensive analysis and recommendations on Downtown and Waterfront parking issues; the other is looking at the City's residential parking program. For full information, including goals, tasks, timeline and opportunities to participate, read the full article and visit parkburlington.com. Position Open: UVM Transportation Research Center Outreach Professional  This position is responsible for program coordination and implementation of programming to build capacity among stakeholders to address current and emerging needs of a 21st century transportation sector workforce across the Northeast United States and manage a state coalition and portfolio of activities to decrease the use of fossil fuels in transportation as part of a national initiative. [Learn More]VTrans to Create Statewide On-Road Bike Plan VTrans is developing an On-Road Bicycle Plan in support of enhancing on-road bicycle improvements on the State highways. This planning effort will use public input and roadway characteristics to categorize state highway corridors into several tiers. The Plan will assist VTrans in understanding where to focus limited resources toward bicycle improvements and allow better integration into Agency projects. [Learn More]
|
Neighbor Rides Program Update
December 10, 2014 - Chittenden County's elderly population is growing: projections indicate that more than one out of four residents will be aged 60 or older by 2030. As our population ages, there will be increased demand for human services transportation as national statistics show 20% of seniors (aged 65+) no longer drive due to poor health, limited mobility, safety concerns or lack of access to a personal vehicle. Access to transportation affects one's physical and emotional health: Limited access to life-sustaining activities can aggravate health problems and lead to more expensive care when it is received, and the inability to access life-enriching activities may result in social isolation and depression, contributing to a decline in functional status and quality of life. Learn about what Neighbor Rides and the CCRPC are doing to address this community issue in your town with the Neighbor Rides Annual Update, or contact Alyson Platzer at alyson@unitedwaycc.org.
|
Vermont Ridership at Record Levels VPR - Ridership on Amtrak's Vermonter is at its highest level ever. Vermont rail officials say track improvements have cut travel time to New York, which has helped attract riders. There are also plans to restore service to Montreal. [Learn More]
Webinar Opportunity: Getting to Better Outcomes with Public Engagement
Wednesday, December 17, 3:00-4:00 Eastern. Association of Pedestrian & Bicycle Professionals; $85.00. [Register Now]
Electric Vehicle Charging Station Loan Program 
This program is funded through the State Infrastructure Bank (SIB), which is operated by the Vermont Economic Development Authority in conjunction with VTrans and the Federal Highway Administration. Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and natural gas refueling stations available for public use are eligible for SIB financing. For more information about EVs and EV charging station technology, visit www.driveelectricvt.com. Drive Electric Vermont is a project of the Vermont Energy Investment Corporation in partnership with the State of Vermont and a broad array of stakeholders advancing electric vehicle technology. [Learn More]
Vermont Department of Health Reviews Route 7 Pedestrian Safety
Milton Independent - The walkability audit conducted by the Vermont Department of Health in conjunction with the Milton Community Youth Coalition was an extension of the ongoing Milton US Route 7 Corridor Study, sponsored by the CCRPC in partnership with the town of Milton and the Vermont Agency of Transportation. [Learn More]
Transportation Project News:
- Burlington Downtown & Residential Parking Initiative | NEW: Submit your feedback online until December 14th using an interactive tool.
- Milton US 7 Corridor Study | NEW: Advisory Committee meeting # 3 held December 8; view the agenda and presentation on the project website.
- Winooski Gateways Project
- Burlington's Pearl St./Prospect St./Colchester Ave. Scoping Study
- Burlington's North Avenue Corridor Study | Recent News: City Council resolution passed October 6; read more on the project website.
- Regional Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) Plan Update
- Plan BTV South End | NEW: RFP information, online tool and more.
- Williston Road Network Transportation Study
New Transportation Projects Underway
- Shelburne Village Sidewalk Construction Project to complete remaining sidewalk on the west side of Route 7 between Shelburne Farms and the Village
- South Burlington Sidewalk Construction Project on VT 116 to extend existing sidewalk to Tilley Drive
- Charlotte Village Area Projects, including: Intersection of US7/Ferry Road/Church Hill; Park & Ride Scoping Study; Sidewalk Scoping Study, Ferry Road from US7 to Greenbush Road
- Underhill Sidewalk Implementation Project
- South Burlington Scoping Project to assess bike/ped gaps at four locations
- Jericho Scoping Project for bike/ped improvements from Lee River Road to Jericho Corners
- Milton Sidewalk Scoping Project to evaluate alternatives for bike/ped improvements near the Railroad Street crossing
- Hinesburg Sidewalk Scoping Studies
If you have questions or would like additional information on any of the projects listed above, please contact Emma Long at the CCRPC: elong@ccrpcvt.org.
|
|
Economy
Implementing ECOS Strategy 1
Vermont Entrepreneurs Invited to Free Workshops on Bringing New Technologies to the Marketplace
The Vermont Small Business Development Center is presenting a series of free workshops for entrepreneurs and businesses around the state. The sessions are geared toward those who are developing new technologies and would like the know-how to bring their ideas to the marketplace. Two upcoming sessions will be held in Winooski. [Learn More]
Statewide Campaign: Shop Vermont This Holiday Season 
The Vermont Retail & Grocers Association, in partnership with Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility and the Vermont Small Business Administration held a press conference in Burlington in late November to kick off a "Shop Vermont This Holiday Season!" statewide awareness campaign. [Learn More]
People's United Community Foundation Announces $7,500 Award to Vermont Works for Women in Winooski 
Vermont Works for Women provides opportunities for women and girls to explore and pursue work that leads to economic independence. The grant from People's United Community Foundation will support VWW's Transitional Jobs program in Chittenden County, which helps adult women transitioning from public assistance or those released from incarceration find stable, permanent employment. The program offers six weeks of soft-skills training, paid work experience, job coaching, and connections to potential employers. [Learn More]
|
|
Quality of Place
Implementing ECOS Strategy 2
Our Town Grant Program Deadline Approaching
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]
Apply for Free Technical Assistance on Building Livable and Sustainable Communities
The Environmental Protection Agency grantee Project for Public Spaces is partnering with Livable Solutions to offer free technical assistance to communities interested in becoming more livable and sustainable. The assistance will help communities understand and apply tools such as walkability audits, green infrastructure valuation guides and shared use agreements. The tools are part of the EPA's Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities Program. Applications are due January 9, 2015. [Learn More]
|
Municipal Planning Grant Program Announces FY15 Awards
The VT Department of Housing and Community Development announced FY15 municipal planning grants, three of which are in Chittenden County. Congratulations to Colchester, Richmond and South Burlington! [Learn More]
Town of Colchester - Zoning and Subdivision Bylaw
State funds awarded: $16,300 | Local match: $4,150 | Total cost: $20,452
Grant funding will create a new zoning district and development standards for the West Lakeshore Drive neighborhood area.
Town of Richmond - Municipal Plan
State funds awarded: $12,643 | Local match: $2,321 | Total cost: $14,964
Funding will gather public input and ideas for incorporation into a new, action-oriented town plan.
City of South Burlington - Zoning and Subdivision Bylaw
State funds awarded: $20,000 | Local match: $6,000 | Total cost: $26,000
Funding will help develop new standards to review large scale projects.
|
Vermont Farm to Plate Releases Updated Guide for Municipalities and Planning Commissions
Sustaining Agriculture, the planning guide published by the VT Agency of Agriculture in 1994, has been updated to demonstrate how Vermont's food system can be incorporated into town planning to strengthen farm viability. The goal of the Farm to Plate Strategic Plan is to ensure that agricultural production and agricultural lands will be available, affordable, and conserved for future generations of farmers. [Learn More]
|
|
Energy & Natural Resources
Implementing ECOS Strategies 3 & 4
Energy Efficiency Company to Invest up to $50 Million
A new energy efficiency company seeks to invest up to $50 million in projects that reduce energy and water use bills over the next five years. Commons Energy is a for-profit subsidiary of Burlington-based Vermont Energy Investment Corp., a nonprofit energy efficiency organization that owns the state's efficiency utility, Efficiency Vermont. The company, which launched early this year, is providing technical and financial assistance for projects that reduce utility costs at public-purpose buildings, such as affordable apartment complexes, health care facilities, schools, municipal buildings and places of worship. [Learn More]
Efficiency Vermont Seeking Input on Three-Year Plan
Efficiency Vermont is creating a three-year plan for Vermont's Energy Efficiency Utility, and is looking for feedback, comments and suggestions from the public. Please visit the plan website to review the presentation given at statewide forums this fall; you may complete an online survey on priorities and programs to share your thoughts or contact Efficiency Vermont Director Jim Merriam at jmerriam@veic.org or (802) 540-7604. [Learn More]
CSWD Seeks Public Input on Solid Waste Implementation Plan 
The Chittenden Solid Waste District is rewriting its Solid Waste Implementation Plan to comply with the State of Vermont's Materials Management Plan, and is seeking public input. [Learn More]
Green Mountain Power Becomes First Utility in the World to Receive B Corp Certification
Green Mountain Power was recognized as the first utility in the world to become a Certified B Corp. B Corps are companies that believe business can be a force for good and are certified by the nonprofit B Lab to meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. [Learn More]
VCE Unveils New Wildlife News Service for Vermont
The Vermont Center for Ecostudies has launched a new website that features breaking news about birds, insects, amphibians and other wildlife in Vermont and around the world. [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. 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 2, 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
|
|
Emergency Preparedness
Implementing ECOS Strategy 5
New $240,000 Grant Program to Support Flood Resilience 
The High Meadows Fund at the Vermont Community Foundation has issued a Request for Proposals representing a commitment of $240,000 aimed at promoting planning and action within Vermont's watersheds. Tropical Storm Irene brought the devastation of extreme weather to the forefront in Vermont, but many Vermonters don't know that since 2000 the state has had at least one federally-declared disaster every year. In certain parts of the state Vermonters have lived through two 100-year flood events in the past decade. High Meadows is encouraging solutions at a multi-town, watershed level. [Learn More]
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 Available
The E9-1-1 Viewer is 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]
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, please contact Lee Krohn in the CCRPC office.
|
|
Save the Date
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]
Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce small BIZ VT summit: March 11, 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]
2015 APA Northeast Planning Conference: June 24-26, 2015
Comprised of 9 states, 7 APA Chapters and the 6 provinces of eastern Canada, the Northeast Region of APA is putting on a conference in 2015 that will prepare planners for what's next, arming them with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to Get Ahead of the Future. [Learn More]
|
If you have questions, feedback, or suggested content for upcoming issues, we'd love to hear from you! Please contact us. 
|
|
|
|
|
