State budget negotiations includes $135 million in "Smart Growth" incentives.
In an attempt to thwart sprawl, the state budget currently under negotiation includes $100 million to provide $2,000, to $5,000 per residence for jurisdictions that increase the number of building permits issued by 25% over the annual average for the past three years. The budget also includes $25 million in grants to help communities develop abandoned commercial sites, $5 million dollars in grants for communities with housing available for the creation of new jobs, and $5 million in loans for multi-family units near transit stations. Opponents charge the amounts will barely make a dent in stopping urban sprawl.
Thanks to William Davis
FULL STORY: State eyes incentives to save farmland - Most S.J. cities wouldn't qualify for $100M program

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions
Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50
A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

Delivering for America Plan Will Downgrade Mail Service in at Least 49.5 Percent of Zip Codes
Republican and Democrat lawmakers criticize the plan for its disproportionate negative impact on rural communities.

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Balancing Bombs and Butterflies: How the National Guard Protects a Rare Species
The National Guard at Fort Indiantown Gap uses GIS technology and land management strategies to balance military training with conservation efforts, ensuring the survival of the rare eastern regal fritillary butterfly.
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