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