Smart Growth Education Foundation

 Community Assistance Grant Program

 

Selection Criteria for Community Assisstance

There are several criteria that need to be met in order for a community to receive a grant for land planning or re-zoning from the SGEF.  PLEASE CHECK one or more of the following that you feel the new planning or zoning project will accomplish:

  Preserves Natural Resources.  The proposal will preserve natural resources or provide open space through the flexible arrangement of the dwelling units that are permitted on the property.  Flexible techniques could include clustering, conservation development principles, the use of density incentives, transfer of development rights, etc.

  Supports Infill Development.  The proposal is for new residential development or redevelopment opportunities within existing “development rings.”  In larger metropolitan areas these development rings include the central city and both its older and newer surrounding suburbs.  In smaller areas, the existing development ring may only include the core city or village.  Toward this end the proposal must demonstrate that economically feasible densities will be permitted; realistic development regulations are or will be in place; and a streamlined review will be utilized to process infill applications.

   Is Contiguous to Existing Developed Areas.  The proposal is contiguous to the “development rings” that surround the major metropolitan areas or smaller, free-standing settlements.  These may include smaller cities, villages, or unincorporated concentrations of development.  Reinforcing existing developed areas means that future growth or development will be at densities that are at least equal to or even higher than the densities prevailing in the existing developed area; be consistent with the prevailing uses and characteristics of the contiguous developed area; utilize existing infrastructure, such as roads and utilities, while recognizing that the existing infrastructure may need to be upgraded and/or expanded; and be realistically sensitive to market requirements and buyer expectations in order for the proposed development to have reasonable expectations for success.

    Creates Independent Mixed-Use Centers.  The proposal has a size, density and mix of residential and commercial uses to offer a variety of housing and supporting services in a single location.  Specifically, it will provide a variety of residential housing to help meet the housing needs of all demographic segments of the population; provide supporting services and/or employment opportunities; preserve natural resources and open space, both within the proposed new development and between the existing developed areas and the newly proposed development; and utilize the existing road network to the maximum extent possible.

(Please be advised that the SGEF may want to publicize this agreement and/or the results of the study for its own educational programs or public relations materials.)

Application

This application will be reviewed, and the community officials will be notified within two weeks of receipt.

On a separate paper, please give a brief description of the assistance needed and please explain how the contemplated project will either (1) preserve natural resources; (2) support infill development; (3) be contiguous to existing developed areas; or (4) create independent mixed-use centers. Also, when would you expect to begin the project?  What is the extent to which it is supported by community officials?