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Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development
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Strong Communities

Downtown and Homeowner Tax Credits

The condition of downtown and village center buildings can mean the difference between an attractive, vibrant community and one that seems lifeless and in decline. Downtown and village center tax credits are a proven tool to spur local investment in building improvements. For this reason, downtown advocates are supporting House Bill 785 to strengthen communities with additional funding for downtown and village center tax credits. The bill also increases funding for VHFA’s down payment assistance program and creates a new tax incentive to improve the quality and quantity of housing close to where Vermonters go to work, school or shop. Learn more here. 

Downtown Day at the State House

Vermont’s 23 designated downtown organizations play a leading role in local economic development, business recruitment, marketing, events and advocacy. On March 13, downtown supporters from across the state will converge at the State House to thank legislators for their support and showcase the important role downtown and village center tax credits play in building strong communities. Please contact Gary Holloway if you would like to join us.

Downtown Transportation Grants

The application deadline for the next round of Downtown Transportation grants is March 19, 2018. This year, $335,000 is available to designated downtowns with a maximum annual award of $100,000 per community. The program supports streetscape improvements, bicycle and pedestrian projects, electric vehicle charging stations, transit facilities, utility relocation, way-finding signage, street lighting and ADA access improvements. For more information, review the program guidelines or contact Gary Holloway.

50% Increase in Village Centers

Village center designations have increased by 50% since 2013, with 138 villages now eligible for a range of special benefits and financial incentives. Congratulations to the 2017 designees: Peru, Brownington, Underhill Center, Hartford Village, Canaan Village, Beecher Falls, Clarendon Springs, Fair Haven, North Hyde Park, Moretown, Newfane, South Newfane, Williamsville, Dorset, East Dorset, Northfield Falls, Saxtons River, Vernon, Wheelock, Rupert, East Rupert and Williston. Contact  Richard Amore to learn more about the program and its benefits.

ThinkVermont Seeks Social Media Ambassadors

ThinkVermont is a state-sponsored campaign designed to spread the word – Vermont is a great place to live, work and start a business! You can help by becoming a ThinkVermont Ambassador. By sharing a few social media posts per month about the many resources and assets unique to Vermont, you can help expand awareness about our amazing state. Find out how to get involved or email ACCD with questions.

State Historic Preservation Grants Announced

This year, over $225,000 in grant funds will support 16 preservation projects and leverage more than $1.2 million in additional investment. Grants will support steeple restoration at the Strafford Town House and Old West Church in Calais; restoration of a decorative stenciled ceiling in Pawlet; roof work at the historic Railway Station in Island Pond and foundation repairs at the Barnard General Store. For a complete list of projects awarded visit our website or contact Catilin Corkins to learn more.

Grants Stimulate Local Problem-Solving 

Congratulations to the thirty-seven communities that received Municipal Planning Grants to accelerate grass-roots solutions by planning trail networks, revitalizing villages and updating land use regulations to improve housing options. Projects completed in past grant rounds offer models other towns can use. All projects for the fall 2018 application deadline will need to include a small cash match. Details will be available in June or contact Faith Ingulsrud to learn more.

Training Opportunities

Upcoming training and events
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Funding Opportunities

Upcoming grants and incentives
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Federal Tax Credits Spark Private Investment in Bennington
Bennington is on the verge of a renaissance. The town of just over 15,000 residents has struggled economically in recent years, with an aging population, declining tourism, slowing retail sales and a shortage of housing options. Recognizing these trends, town leaders are partnering with local institutions and private developers to access state and federal resources, attract investment and support downtown revitalization. This includes the Federal Rehabilitation Investment Tax Credit (RITC). The RITCs are one of the most effective tools available to promote historic preservation and community revitalization. The program incentivizes private investment in historic properties, generates jobs and enhances property values. In combination with other resources, RITC funds will be an essential tool in Bennington’s exciting Putnam Block redevelopment, a $53 million project that will include 200,000 square feet of renovated space and new development in the heart of Bennington’s downtown. Learn more about the RITC program at the National Park Service website and how RITCs have impacted Vermont here.
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