Berkshires Gets $200K in State Grants to Boost Housing, Conservation & Development
PITTSFIELD, Mass. The Healey-Driscoll Administration has awarded over $2.1 million in grant funding through the Planning Assistance Grant Program, with a significant portion benefiting communities in Berkshire County.
These grants, administered by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA), aim to improve community land use practices by promoting conservation, sustainable housing and economic development, and climate resilience. The Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) is the applicant for most of these local projects, providing crucial support for efficient land use, increased housing options, and climate change initiatives.
Specifically, the following Berkshire County communities and projects have received funding:
- Berkshire County (200-300 locations): The Berkshire Regional Planning Commission has been awarded $37,500 for a Priority Redevelopment Sites Strategy for Berkshire County.
- Great Barrington: The Berkshire Regional Planning Commission has received $37,500 for a Priority Redevelopment Sites Strategy for Berkshire County.
- Lee: The Berkshire Regional Planning Commission has been granted $41,250 for Downtown Zoning Modernization.
- Pittsfield: The Berkshire Regional Planning Commission has secured $41,250 for an Open Space and Recreation Plan Update.
- Sheffield: The Berkshire Regional Planning Commission has been awarded $32,900 for Housing Planning Implementation.
- Pittsfield: The City of Pittsfield has also received a separate grant of $23,900 for a Community Food System Study.
"This funding will help our communities plan to grow, develop, and conserve," said EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper. "We are giving local leaders the tools to work with residents and experts, helping them to develop practical plans that improve land use and increase housing options."
The Planning Assistance Grant Program will also help local governments engage the public and find expert help. This support allows municipalities to implement smart land use practices that align with Massachusetts' Sustainable Development Principles and comply with the Zoning Act.
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