HUD announces $100 million for sustainable communities

The US Department of Housing and Urban Development has awarded its first grants “to support more livable and sustainable communities” — nearly $100 million for 45 areas across the country.

The department’s new Sustainable Communities Regional Planning Grant program is intended to connect housing, jobs, schools, and transportation, reflecting the Obama administration’s commitment to having HUD, the US Department of Transportation, and the Environmental Protection Agency work together through the recently formed Partnership for Sustainable Communities.

The grants “will support metropolitan and multi-jurisdictional planning efforts that incorporate housing, land use, economic development, transportation, and infrastructure,” HUD said.

Of the total, $25.6 million will be split evenly between regions with fewer than 500,000 people and rural places (defined as having populations under 200,000). HUD is reserving $2 million to help areas build the capacity to execute their plans. Including the $2 million, the program is a $100 million initiative.

"In tough economic times, it’s critical that America’s cities and towns make smarter use of their money," said Geoffrey Anderson, president and CEO of Smart Growth America, praising the program. "These grant awards will help communities across the country save money, create jobs, leverage private investment, and make smarter decisions with public dollars."

The National League of Cities, National Association of Renewal Councils, National Association of Agencies on Aging, and ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability USA joined Smart Growth America in urging Congress and the Obama administration to continue "adequately funding" these activities. "Congress should enact the Livable Communities Act (S.1619/H.R.4690)" so that HUD can provide needed support for regional planning and implementation, the organizations said.

The five groups cited the Partnership's potential to "help cut traffic congestion; reduce greenhouse gas emissions and gasoline consumption; protect rural areas and green spaces; revitalize existing Main Streets and urban centers; and create more affordable housing." The groups said those goals deserve to be pursued through "increased and sustained funding through federal appropriations and budget processes."

Click on table above right for a list of the Regional Planning Grant program's recipients and awards.