BRPC Get State Planning Grant
BOSTON —?The Healey-Driscoll Administration today announced $1.4 million in grants to support local and regional planning agencies in developing plans and implementing land use regulations consistent with their goals and the conservation and development objectives of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs' (EEA).
Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) received $50,000 to develop a comprehensive plan for the town of Lanesborough.
This year, 26 projects are being awarded funding through the Planning Assistance Grant Program. Municipalities will use the grants to undertake public processes and hire technical expertise to mitigate and prepare for climate change impacts, improve land use practices, conserve and sustainably develop land, and diversify housing choices.
"Zoning ordinances can have a significant impact on a municipality's ability to combat the climate crisis,"?said EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper.?"Transit-oriented housing, protecting open spaces, and building in resilient areas are critical considerations. As weather becomes more extreme, it's important that we update regulations to help build resiliency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions across Massachusetts."?
The program is part of technical assistance offered to communities to support the Housing Choice Initiative and help municipalities comply with Section 3A of the Zoning Act (MBTA Communities). The projects selected are consistent with the?Massachusetts' Sustainable Development Principles.
