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
Transportation for Vermonters
VNRC coordinates T4VT, a statewide advocacy coalition dedicated to a sustainable & accessible transportation system for Vermont.
Read MoreUpcoming Sustainable Communities Events, Resources, and Opportunities
Learn more about upcoming opportunities to strengthen resilience and sustainability in your community.
Read MorePolicy Position: Act 250
Read more about how VNRC is working to modernize Act 250 in 2024!
Read MoreSmart Growth News
Two Things: Act 250 Action and Art Walk with a Pollinator Workshop
Two Things: Asking you to take action today to support Act 250 reform, and inviting you to join us for Montpelier Art Walk with a special clay workshop for pollinators! Stay…
Town of Waitsfield Awarded $5,000 Small Grant for Smart Growth for Community Wastewater Project
Montpelier, VT – Vermont Natural Resources Council (VNRC) and the Preservation Trust of Vermont (PTV) are pleased to announce the award of a $5,000 grant to the Town of Waitsfield’s Community…
Two Things: An Environmental Justice Webinar and a Last Call for Small Grants for Smart Growth Applications
Two Things: Inviting you to a webinar on an equitable approach to Vermont’s clean energy transition, and reminding you we’re still accepting Small Grants for Smart Growth applications! Stay informed,…