SmartGrowth — there is no single definition of SmartGrowth, but the term does carry central goals and objectives such as sensible economic growth, enhancement of public transportation and reduction in traffic, development that revitalizes central cities or communities and preservation of open space and parks.

It also means promotion of bicycle and walking trails or paths connecting areas throughout the community, revitalization of the already built environment, investments in libraries, schools, and other public services, making a community attractive and special, reducing sprawl, protection of natural resources and creating safe, convenient and affordable neighborhoods.

Every year, the EPA selects a handful of communities to receive free, direct, technical assistance in helping them implement different aspects of SmartGrowth. The wealth of experience and knowledge within EPA’s program (and outside experts) is mobilized to help communities, regions, or states that want assistance in making smarter growth a reality. The U.S. EPA is now accepting applications for its highly coveted free technical assistance program.

Selected communities will receive assistance in the form of a multi-day visit from a team of experts organized by EPA and other national partners to work with local leaders. The application deadline is May 8, 2009.

Information can be found at www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/sgia.htm.

The list of applicants is long, and the list of awardees is short. So get your applications in soon.

Jo Huff

Proctorville