VTrans and ACCD announce $200k in planning funds to increase transportation options that build vibrant community centers
The Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans) and the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD) are pleased to announce the second round of the Strong Communities, Better Connections (SCBC) Grant Program, aimed at supporting vibrant community centers and increasing town and regional transportation options. Annually, the program grants approximately $200,000 in planning funds to help cities and towns (outside of Chittenden County) build more livable, walkable and strong communities. Grant Applications are due January 15, 2016 with all applicants required to participate in a pre-application meeting with SCBC Program Managers prior to December 18, 2015.
“We know how critical transportation is to the economic vitality and overall health of our communities,” said Transportation Secretary Chris Cole. “By providing resources to communities to better plan their public infrastructure that also supports economic development at the community level, we are empowering communities to imagine and build their own future.”
“This exciting agency partnership is helping our transportation system serve the needs of more people while fostering economic vitality for our businesses and communities,” said Housing and Community Development Commissioner Noelle MacKay.
Last year’s pilot round of the SCBC Grant Program funded three projects that are in progress: Mad River Valley Towns (Warren, Waitsfield) are developing a multi-town plan for walking, biking and active recreation in the valley; the Towns of Rutland and West Rutland are developing a plan to create and enhance opportunities to bike, walk, live and work along the US Route 4 corridor; and the City of Vergennes is developing a master plan to improve the biking and walking connections between the downtown and Basin Harbor.
For more information, contact Jackie Cassino, at 802-272-2368 or Richard Amore at 802-828-5229 and visit the grant website https://vtransplanning.vermont.gov/programs/scbc.
Grant Timeline
| October 16, 2016 | SCBC Grant Announcement |
| December 18, 2015 | Pre-application Meeting Deadline |
| December 31, 2015 | RPC Confirmation of Municipal Planning Process |
| January 15, 2016 | Application Deadline |
| February 19, 2016 | Award Decisions |
| March 25, 2016 | VTrans Grant Agreement Due |
| May 27, 2016 | Consultant Procurement Due |
| January 27, 2017 | Mid-project Report Due |
| September 1, 2017 | Project Completion and All Funds Spent |
| September 29, 2017 | Project Close-out Report and Final Project Reports Due |