Community Clips
Smart Growth News for the Washington, DC Region

January 9, 2006


In this issue:

• Citizen Action Day, January 16
• New Initiative to Protect Region's Natural Resources
• Still Time to Speak Out Against Proposed ICC
• Complete the Streets Movement Seeks Safer Routes
• $40 Million Equity Fund Targets Projects for the Creative Class
• Upcoming Events

Citizen Action Day, January 16

The Virginia and Maryland General Assemblies begin their annual legislative sessions this month. Transportation and growth issues are certain to be key issues on both sides of the river. Join others from across both states to learn about upcoming issues and to make your voice heard in this process. Monday, January 16, the Martin Luther King holiday, is the annual Virginia Citizen Lobby Day and the Maryland Environmental Summit. A personal visit to your legislator is one of the most effective ways you can make a difference!

New Initiative to Protect Region's Natural Resources

In last year's Reality Check exercise -- when elected officials, environmental and civic advocates, and business leaders met to consider how best to accommodate growth in the region -- one of the consistent themes that arose was the need to preserve and protect natural resources and undeveloped areas. In response, the Washington Smart Growth Alliance (SGA) has launched an initiative to identify and support regional conservation needs. Learn more.

Still Time to Speak Out Against Proposed ICC

Although the Maryland State Highway Administration issued its final environmental review of the proposed ICC last week, the project is still not a done deal. The escalating cost, over $3 billion, is raising concerns among an increasing number of residents and officials who are concerned that other critical transportation projects will go unfunded. Public comments are being taken until the end of February, with a final decision coming from the government after that. Learn why the ICC fails to pass muster -- and what you can do -- by visiting Save Our Communities and the Sierra Club’s Challenge to Sprawl Campaign.

Complete the Streets Movement Seeks Safer Routes

A movement is growing across the country to "complete the streets" -- a catchy phrase that refers to designing and operating streets that provide safe access for all users. As baby boomers join the ranks of senior citizens, walkable streets will become increasingly important. According to Complete Streets Coalition, 21% of Americans over 65 do not drive, and of those, more than 50% stay at home on a given day because they lack transportation options. The campaign to Complete the Streets aims to reduce isolation and dependence, foster a healthier lifestyle, and reduce traffic and pollution. Learn more.

$40 Million Equity Fund Targets Projects for the Creative Class

CoolTown Studios, a DC-based market and economic development firm, is helping target $40 million in real estate funds to infill development projects that adhere to smart growth design principles. The organization seeks to create communities that appeal to the creative class. Learn more.

Upcoming Events

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