Sustainable Communities
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

Smart Growth Progress Report
Evaluating whether state investments advance smart growth in housing, transportation, economic development, and capital construction
Read More
VNRC Policy Position: S.100
Increasing housing choice and affordability in Vermont’s downtowns and village centers is a critical climate solution
Read MoreSmart Growth News

Two Things: Wildlands in New England Report Briefing & Legislative Wrap Up
Two things: A legislative wrap up and a webinar for the release of the Wildlands in New England Report. Stay informed, stay connected—two things. That’s a Wrap! Final Legislative Victories…

Two Things: Green Up Day and More Exciting Progress in the Vermont State House
Two things: Vermont’s annual Green Up Day is this weekend, and we’ve got more exciting legislative progress to share! Stay informed, stay connected—two things. Vermont’s Annual Green Up Day is…

Two Things: The Missing Middle Housing Hunt & the Annual Muddy Onion Bike Ride
Two things: a new photo contest to capture Vermont’s missing middle housing, and Onion River Outdoors’ annual Muddy Onion Bike Ride! Stay informed, stay connected—two things. The Missing Middle Housing…
Arthur Gibb Award for Individual Leadership

