Smart Growth
Smart growth is a pattern of land development that creates compact, walkable, transit-accessible communities with a range of affordable housing opportunities and choices. In Vermont, it builds on and maintains the state’s historic settlement pattern of higher-density downtown and village centers surrounded by farm, forest, and natural areas.
Using smart growth principles as a guide, VNRC promotes land use planning that creates communities that are environmentally sustainable, economically viable, and resilient. To do this, we ensure the continued strength and effectiveness of Act 250, Vermont’s landmark development review law, as well as complementary state policies that promote smart growth and reduce sprawl. And we support the state’s farming and forest economies to ensure long-term land availability and economic health.
Kati Gallagher, Sustainable Communities Program Director
802-223-2328 x114

Initiatives

Transportation for Vermonters (T4VT)
Collaborating across sectors to build a sustainable, accessible transportation system in a rural state
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Smart Growth Progress Report
Evaluating whether state investments advance smart growth in housing, transportation, economic development, and capital construction
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Promoting compact development through Act 250
Ensuring that Act 250 reduces sprawl and discourages scattered, incremental development
Read MoreSmart Growth News

Three Things: Housing, your thoughts, and a job opportunity!
Three things: Smart growth housing and the environment on Vermont Edition; VNRC’s 2023 Member & Activist Survey is open through the end of March; and we’re hiring! Stay informed, connected,…

Two Things: Legislative Update and Fare-Free Transit
Two things: Lots going on in the legislature this week, and a story about Marlena, who moved to Vermont for lakes, rivers, and…fare free transit! Stay informed, stay connected—two things….

Three Things: Citizen Advocacy Makes a Difference
Three things: the Vermont Citizen Advisory Committee has released a new plan to support Lake Champlain; Transportation for Vermonters hosted a coffee and lobby day at the State House; and we’re…

