$2.4 Million in New Grants for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
In late June, governments, businesses, nonprofits, homeowner associations, electric utilities, and charging equipment providers will be eligible to apply for reimbursement grants to expand Vermont’s network of charging stations. Initial funding will target state-designated centers, interstate exits, major tourist destinations, colleges/universities, hospitals, public transit stations, park and rides, qualified workplaces, and multi-family housing developments. Program guidelines and the application will be available soon. For more information visit the website or contact Gary Holloway.
|
|
Deadline for Downtown and Village Center Tax Credits
Vermont’s tax credit program has a proven track record of improving historic buildings to support new and expanded businesses, create jobs, and breathe new life into communities. Tax credits offset 10-50% of new investment costs to reduce the cost of building, technology, and code improvements. This year’s application deadline is July 2. To learn more or schedule a site visit, contact Caitlin Corkins.
|
|
|
Municipal Planning Grants
MPGs empower local leaders to take action and fund projects like developing a village economic development plan, mapping and marketing trail networks, or updating land use regulations, and town plans. Program changes for this year include a 10% cash match for all grants and a simplified consultant selection process for small towns. DHCD will offer training on how to write a successful grant application on August 8. Applications are due October 1 with funding decisions announced in December. See the program description to learn more or contact Faith Ingulsrud.
|
|
|
Investments in Stronger Downtowns
Public and private investment in Vermont’s 23 designated downtowns continues to create new businesses, jobs, and housing. The 2017 reinvestment statistics collected by Vermont’s Designated Downtown organizations show that private investment totaled over $35 million in over 900 downtown improvement projects like building renovations and new construction. The report documents 127 new housing units, 47 net new businesses creating 200 jobs, and $17 million invested downtown public improvement projects. Over 33,000 volunteer hours were invested to strengthen the vitality of Vermont’s downtowns.
|
|
|
New Tool: Making Room for Rivers
The Department of Environmental Conservation has a new Flood Training website to help local officials get flood-ready. Flooding is Vermont’s most common natural disaster, and this site guides users through key concepts, features Vermont projects, provides tools and resources, and offers support to help municipalities reduce the risk of future flood events. Join the Flood Resilience Listserv to get updates and check out the new website to learn more.
|
|
|
Five Communities Receive Downtown Transportation Grants
Thanks to grant funds from VTrans, five designated downtowns will share $334,000 to make their communities more walk and bike friendly. Funds will support sidewalk and safety improvements in Rutland, Vergennes and Wilmington, streetscape improvements in Bristol and the expansion of Comtu Falls Park in Springfield. For more information visit the website or contact Gary Holloway.
|
|
|
|
Training Opportunities
Upcoming training and events
|
|
|
Funding Opportunities
Upcoming grants and incentives
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bristol: The Little Town That Could
|
|
|
Bristol is known for its compact and charming Main Street, abundant natural beauty and nearby outdoor recreational opportunities. The community has worked incredibly hard to maintain a strong and active “downstreet,” and a new case study showcases how investments in public infrastructure, housing, and community gathering spaces have created a more welcoming and walkable downtown for visitors and residents.
|
|
|
|
