Community Development

Community Development is a key priority for local and state government agencies, focusing on improving the quality of life in communities through economic growth, housing, and social services. By fostering strong, vibrant communities, governments can address poverty, unemployment, and access to resources. This directory provides articles on community development and related topics like Economic Development, which explores strategies for job creation and attracting investments that drive regional growth.

The Trump 2019 budget repeats last year’s fraud argument in its goal to eliminate LIHEAP, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which also funds cooling needs in summer.
This opportunity is for walkable community advocates and community change agents working alone, in organizations or in professions such as public health, planning, transportation or education.
Housing agencies must ensure that all Section 9 multi-family housing units comply with the federal smoke free public housing policy effective July 31, 2018.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will distribute federal grant money to 21 cities, conservation districts and other organizations throughout the state to support urban forestry projects
The University of Buffalo has launched a food policy database to help local governments access information and resources
New York and New Jersey are investing in storm-proofing measures to be better prepared for inclement weather
Maria Koetter, Director of Louisville’s Office of Sustainability, discussed the city’s plan to reduce per capita energy use by 25 percent by 2025
Chicago collects real-time data on the city’s environment, infrastructure and operations to increase efficiency.
Berkeley recently approved the nation’s first soda tax in an effort to encourage community wellness. What innovative policies could boost quality of life for your residents?
Baltimore is employing ex-convicts to reduce crime and violence in at-risk neighborhoods. Learn how these employees use their own experiences to put youth on the road to success
A $75M Treasury Department grant will be divided among 12 Michigan cities looking to redevelop vacant or dilapidated buildings. Learn how federal funds continue to support recoveries from the housing crisis
One study discusses how a city’s playability score impacts quality of life and economic growth. How playable is your municipality?
DOJ’s COPS grant program helps local police departments deploy community policing principles with a focus on mental health issues. Are your law enforcement officers trained to handle mental health issues in the field?
One sheriff’s department is creating a citizen-led posse to assist deputies during emergencies. How do you mobilize your citizens?
The U.S. Department of Agriculture is committing $4.9M to 50 rural business and transportation projects designed to spur economic growth. Read about the different resources available to growing rural economies
NYC will spend $160M to equip police officers with the latest mobile technology. How can your law enforcement optimize real-time communication tools?
Amsterdam’s urban food distribution initiative will reduce emissions while supporting locally-sourced produce. What sustainability measures are implemented in your community?
A Danish lab is testing smart sensor tech to make city lighting more efficient. How much could your city save from efficient lighting improvements?
Geographic information systems (GIS) technology allow local agencies and residents to access and share community information. Consider how the technology can improve data sharing in your community