Community Builders

Programs: The goals of the community builders technical assistance program are to: 1) help communities make tangible progress on specific livability objectives; 2) build local capacity to help communities advance livability solutions on their own; and 3) create models and success stories that can inspire and inform progress in other communities within the region. Each year, program benchmarks are to: (1) complete four to eight targeted, short-term assistance projects; and (2) initiate a limited number of larger flagship projects. This past year, we completed projects across idaho, new mexico, and colorado.

the goals of the community builders training program are to: 1) increase knowledge, competence and leadership abilities of people who make/influence land use and transportation decisions; and (2) help local leaders develop the partnerships, tools, inspiration and direction they need to advance livability. Each year, program benchmarks are to: (1) organize and hold 2-3 trainings that engage community teams; (3) provide follow-up assistance to teams; (4) host 10 - 12 webinars. This year we held two team-based trainings, one in idaho and one in colorado, and monthly webinars on a variety of topics related to economic development, land use, and planning.

our communications goals are to (1) broaden support for smart growth and livability, with a focus on engaging those who make and influence land use, transportation and development decisions, and (2) support all our programs with strategic and compelling products designed to amplify community voices and showcase results. To meet these goals, we produce a variety of communications products including reports, blogs, press releases, social media posts, speaking engagements and webinars.

our research program aims to: (1) provide information that results in sound planning, policies and decision-making; (2) broaden support for smart growth and livable communities; and (3) create tools and resources that spur innovations and enable implementation of best practices. We produce reports, whitepapers, technical memoranda and other research-oriented products to support projects based within other programs (i. E. Technical assistance) and to advance the state of knowledge in general.