Pioneer Valley Planning Commission 2011 Major Accomplishments

8/3/2019 Pioneer Valley Planning Commission 2011 Major Accomplishments

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2011Major Accomplishments

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Pioneer Valley Planning Commission

2011Major Accomplishments

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Pioneer Valley Planning Commission


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2011 Major Accomplishments

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the Record

Top Ten Resolves for 2011

Assist the Commonwealth and its partners to begin the $72.8 million effort to rebuild our regionsnorth-south Knowledge Corridor rail line from Springeld to the Vermont line beginning in 2011.Correspondingly, help MassDOT to launch a comprehensive feasibility study aimed at revitalizing theeast-west Inland Route to allow intercity rail services connecting Boston, Worcester, and Springeld.

Co-chair and contribute to a special Innovation District Task Force responsible for developing acomprehensive, action-focused strategy that allows Holyoke and the region to leverage the economicdevelopment and job creation potential created by Holyokes Green High Performance Computing

Center to be developed by a higher education consortium comprised of MIT, Harvard, University ofMassachusetts, Northeastern, and Boston University.

In collaboration with the Capitol Region Council of Governments based in Hartford, plus numerousother partners, launch the rst phase of a three-year-long, bi-state project focusing on the KnowledgeCorridor and integrating this interstate regions combined assets to achieve sustainable developmentpolicies and practices for its over 1.7 million residents. Begin development of a new online product tocommunicate achievements.

Complete and secure nal approval of a comprehensive overhaul and updating of the 2007 versionof the Pioneer Valleys federally mandated Regional Transportation Plan consistent with all applicable

federal and state laws and regulations including new greenhouse gas emission reduction targets for2020. Pursue in concert with member cities and towns alternative local transportation options thatreduce single occupant vehicle trips and boost public transit modes and ridership.

Begin the rst of a multi-year effort designed to receive, compile, and report on the results of the 2010Federal Census as these data sets apply to the Pioneer Valley region and its 43 member cities andtowns. Disseminate the results of the 2010 U.S. Census data through various means including datadigests, informational forums, media releases, website postings, etc.

Under the auspices of the Plan for Progress, launch the Leadership Pioneer Valley initiative in2011 as a region-wide leadership development program intended to develop and connect anexpanding supply of leaders from throughout the Pioneer Valley and which fosters the skills,collaborative mind-set, and deep commitment that are essential to maintain a vibrant and healthyPioneer Valley community.


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Continue the PVPCs concerted efforts to provide technical assistance to member cities and townswhich choose to pursue and achieve formal designation by the Commonwealth as Green Communi-ties during the 2011 calendar year with at least 8 to 10 PVPC communities targeted for this PVPCsupport and assistance.

Document the protection and management of green space in the Pioneer Valley Region through theupdating of the Valley Vision 2 regional land use plan. Provide information to member communitieson land conservation funding options and available land use techniques that can help achieveestablished goals for the region.

Work in concert with the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) and affected PVPC membercities and towns on a three-year effort designed to plan, develop, and deploy affordable, high-speed,and reliable Internet services in 123 Massachusetts communities which are either not served orare signicantly under-serviced, by high-speed broadband service using a middle mile networkapproach.

Work with both the Congressional delegation in Washington, as well as the Massachusetts Legislatureand Governor Patrick, to shape and advance legislative initiatives at the federal or state level thatsupport and/or benet the Pioneer Valley and its member communities and people. Key areas ofemphasis in 2011 include transportation funding, economic development/job creation, climatechange, renewal energy, shared regional services, and zoning reform, among many others.


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During 2011, the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission under-took numerous projects and tasks on behalf of its 43 membercommunities and the region as a whole. As these work activi-ties have signicantly inuenced our Valleys future economicprosperity, they have also protected its character and naturalresources. These major accomplishments are highlighted inthis report.

Increasingly, the commission engages in work projects thatare interdisciplinary and collaborative, drawing upon the con-tributions of staff across the spectrum of planning and relatedareas of expertise. Such projects are listed under the subjectcategories that most closely dene them.

Overview


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Worked in cooperationwith federal, state, andlocal ofcials to developand amend the Trans-portation ImprovementProgram (TIP) for thePioneer MetropolitanPlanning organization.This scally constraineddocument schedules alltransportation improvementprojects, denes fundingsources, and lists regionalproject priorities. PVPCstaff worked in consultationwith local cities and townsto update the status of allprojects included on the TIP. New projects were prioritizedusing the regional project evaluation criteria and updatedproject information was added into the TIP as necessary. PVPCstaff worked with the Joint Transportation Committee (JTC)

and Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) to review andendorse the TIP.

Performed a total of 143 counts as part of PVPCs annual trafccounting program. The data collection effort included 78 ve-hicle counts for the member communities, 46 vehicle countsrequested by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation,and 19 peak hour turning movement counts.

Updated pavement distress data on the federal-aid eligibleroadways in all of the 43 communities in the region. A priority

listing of roadway maintenance and construction projects wasdeveloped based on a benet/cost ratio. This existing pave-ment distress information on all federally aided roadways wasused to report on the regions backlog of repairs.

Transportation


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Finished Year Three and started Year Four of the four-year TravelTime data collection cycle. A data collection year is sched-uled to correspond with an average academic school yearbeginning in early September and ending in late May. Datacollection is restricted by factors including but not limited to

inclement weather, federally observed holidays, and schoolvacations. The data is collected for each corridor on multipledays and in both directions during the a.m. and p.m. peakhours (7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.).Year Three included the collection of 21 corridors. This datawill be used to update the Congestion Management Process(CMP) for the Pioneer Valley.

Began efforts to update the regional transportation model toreect 2010 conditions. PVPC performed research on historictrafc count data for use in the development and calibration of

the model.

Collected data and examined the existing conditions for threeintersections along Locust Street (Route 9) in Northampton. Atrafc signal warrant analysis and an exclusive left turn analy-sis was performed for the intersection of Locust Street (Route9) and Hateld Street. PVPC used the Synchro software tostudy the impact of different alternatives and identify improve-ments to improve safety and reduce congestion through thestudy area

Performed a build-out analysis for the Route 10 corridor forthe City of Easthampton. PVPC worked in cooperation withthe Easthampton Highway Business Committee to identifyvacant and under-developed parcels prime for future develop-ment over the next 10 years. A hypothetical build-out scenariowas proposed for the probable development, and two build-out scenarios were analyzed to estimate the potential numberof new trips that could be generated. A modied gravity modelwas used for trip distribution, and a level-of-service analysiswas performed at major intersections to determine the impactof the new trips on the existing transportation system. Basedon the results, recommendations were summarized for the City

to guide and achieve long-term sustainable development.

Finalized the draft Pavement Management System Report forthe City of West Springeld. Pavement distress data and keyroadway geometrics were collected and analyzed to prioritizeroadway preventive maintenance and reconstruction projects.

Worked in cooperation with the City of Springeld to developa series of three ood scenarios. PVPC staff analyzed the im-pacts of the ood scenarios on local roadway operations anddeveloped a series of recommendations including evacuationdetours, proposed signs, and a map of roadways that could beimpacted by ooding.

Completed a report titled Telecommuting Patterns and Trendsin the Pioneer Valley. In an online commuter survey, PVPCinvited residents and employees to respond to a series ofquestions about their commutes and their experience with

telecommuting.

Completed the 2012 Update to the Regional Transporta-tion Plan (RTP) for the Pioneer Valley Metropolitan PlanningOrganization. The RTP outlines the direction of transportationplanning and improvements for the Pioneer Valley throughthe year 2035. It provides the basis for all state and federallyfunded transportation improvement projects and planningstudies. The long-range plan concentrates on both existingneeds and anticipated future deciencies in our transporta-tion infrastructure, presents the preferred strategies to alleviatetransportation problems, and creates a schedule of regionallysignicant projects that are nancially constrained. The 2012Update to the RTP also incorporates sustainability and climatechange into the transportation planning process.

Held monthly Joint Transportation Committee (JTC) meetingsfor discussing current transportation issues in the region. The

JTC provides a mechanism for federal, state, and local inputinto the regional transportation planning process. The commit-tee composed of locally appointed representatives of the 43municipalities in the Pioneer Valley is designed to assist theMPO in incorporating citizen participation in transportation

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Developed the UniedPlanning Work Program(UPWP) for federal scalyear 2012. The UPWPdescribes the annual

technical work program,indicates regional short-and long-range transporta-tion planning objectives,and identies the fundingsources for each work taskto be undertaken throughSeptember 30, 2012.

Completed transportationand safety studies for the

intersections of FederalStreet (Route 9) and Bay Road in Belchertown; and CottageStreet, Robbins Road, and Industrial Avenue in Springeld.PVPC collected existing trafc operations data, analyzed thesafety and congestion problems, and developed a set of short-and long-term recommendations to alleviate the situation.

Expanded the public participation planning effort for thePioneer Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization. As partof larger transportation planning tasks and in recognition ofchanging demographics PVPC expanded outreach, coopera-tion, and consultation with community members includinglow income, minority, and limited English stakeholders. Thiseffort resulted in several new initiatives and new partner-ships including a Fun on the Riverwalk event that engagedresidents of Springelds Brightwood neighborhood in healthawareness and the benets of physical activity. Coordina-tion efforts were expanded with meetings and consultationsin populations with limited English prociency (LEP), andstaff conducted interviews and expanded media outreach tonew markets. Project-specic information was also providedto non-traditional partners, with staff providing one-on-one review of design plans for several roadway projects in

Springeld. PVPC also worked with Holyoke representativeson sidewalk and bicycle facilities development and jointlyparticipated in complete streets training with communityofcials and civic volunteers.

Working in cooperation with the University of MassachusettsAmherst, began a comprehensive review of the regionalEnvironmental Justice and Limited English Prociency deni-tions. A series of new indicators was developed and 2010Census information was analyzed to assist in these denitions.

Participated in roadway safety audits (RSAs) for the cities ofAgawam, Northampton, and Springeld. PVPC worked incooperation with the Massachusetts Department of Transpor-tation and local staff to identify the factors that contribute toexisting safety problems and develop a series of recommenda-tions to include as part of proposed roadway improvementprojects.

Worked in cooperation with the Federal Highway Administra-tion (FHWA) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to

assist in their evaluation of the transportation planning processfor the Pioneer Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization.This evaluation is conducted every four years in order to cer-tify the activities as the MPO for the Springeld TransportationManagement Area (TMA).

Performed data collection and analyzed the intersection crashhistory at several locations in the City of Springeld in order todetermine the eligibility of each intersection for federal fund-ing under the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP).

Convened meetings of the Pioneer Valley Metropolitan Plan-ning Organization during the 2011 calendar year. The PioneerValley MPO is a forum for cooperative transportation decisionmaking and jointly develops, reviews, and endorses plans andprograms that may be required by federal and state laws andregulations

Participated as part of the Project Advisory Committee to assistin the development of an intersection analysis and improve-ment design for the I-91 Exit 19 interchange by the Massa-chusetts Department of Transportation. The study includes adetailed alternatives analysis and evaluation that reviews a

number of build and no-build options with the goal of increas-ing mobility in the I-91 Interchange 19 area.


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Conducted off-model Air Quality Conformity Analysis forproposed passenger rail service in the Pioneer Valley region.Calculated savings in vehicle miles travelled by anticipatedsystem users due to the expansion of the passenger rail. PVPCalso completed the necessary air quality analysis to assist in

determining the eligibility of proposed transportation improve-ment projects under the Congestion, Mitigation, and Air Qual-ity (CMAQ) category for several projects: Belchertown MainStreet at Jabbish Street intersection improvements, Agawambike loop, West Springeld bike path, Northampton park andride lot, and Springeld Boston Road reconstruction.

Updated timetables, maps, customerinformation, and driver eld guidepublications for all PVTA bus routes.Oversaw production of a half-millionprint schedules and prepared a PDFversion for Internet distribution.Produced schedules for two new FiveCollege routes. Reduced quantity ofprint schedules ordered by one-third through new rolling inventory

management. Produced and installedlaminated schedules and informa-tional signs along 10 bus routes and atkey locations for special events, andupdated system maps for terminalsand transfer hubs. Produced graphicles and related products for thePVTA website.

Finalized the 2010 Pioneer Valley Non-Transit User Study,which included a regional telephone survey, intercepts at park-

ing garages, and analysis of U.S. Census data. Key nding: anestimated 60,000 non-transit users in the region could take thebus for their most frequent trips. Top reasons for not riding thebus: need for a car during the work day, distance too great tonearest bus stop, infrequent service, and long travel times. Thestudy offered targeted, detailed recommendations to addressthe non-rider concerns identied.

Conducted the 2011 PVTA Paratransit Users Survey, mailed to3,000 PVTA senior and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)van riders (34% response rate). Preliminary ndings show that

more than 85% of customers say van service is excellent orgood, 19% said it would be possible to take the xed routeservice, and 71% would not be comfortable or able to use theInternet for booking van trips.

Transit


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Conducted 250 unannounced service quality spot checksas part of the PVTA Mystery Rider program. The programexpanded to include service animal testing. This also included50 observations of paratransit van services.

Performed 1,200 eld observations of PVTA bus routes foran on-time performance monitoring program and producedanalysis reports.

Managed and facilitated a PVTA public involvement program.Revised the format for quarterly Bus Rider Forums to openhouse-style events held at major transit hubs, increasing thenumber of participants by at least tenfold. Attended monthlymeetings of community public transportation groups inNorthampton, Amherst, and Ware. Facilitated public hearingsfor the discontinuation of the Belchertown shuttle.

Facilitated quarterly meetings of PVTA paratransit ridersto identify and discuss concerns to ADA and senior riders.Began developing a format and membership for a new PVTAParatransit Riders Advisory Committee to replace quarterlymeetings.

Facilitated meetings and asurvey for the Try TransitWeek partnership withSpringeld CommunityHealth Partners and PVTA.

Improved effectivenessof PVTAs Limited EnglishProciency outreach withidentication of Russian-speaking populations.Produced and distributedRussian language customerinformation and scheduleposters. Partnered withcommunity-based organiza-

tions to hold bus rider train-ings with recent Russian immigrants and with Spanish, Somali,and Burmese residents with limited English prociency.

Assisted PVTA with various route planning tasks and serviceassistance, including on/off analysis of B7, a survey of WareShuttle customers and community members, geospatial analy-sis of paratransit trips, and inventory of Springeld bus shelterlocations.

Produced a PVTA bus safety walk-through video to familiarizeemergency responders with vehicle safety features, equipment,and procedures.

Updated the scope for a PVTA system-wide efciency studyand participated in preliminary meetings with transportationplanning consultants.

Prepared an employee survey for Bay State Medical Centeremployees as part of marketing outreach for the Sumner

Express.

Prepared exhibits and support materials for grant submissionsto the Federal Transit Administration State of Good Repair BusLivability and TIGGER programs for six diesel-electric hybrid60-foot articulated buses and 10 diesel-electric hybrid 40-footbuses.

Prepared the draft PVTA Capital Improvement Program 2011-2015.

Updated PVPCs Regional Coordinated Human Services Planand PVPCs Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) programand annual goal.


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Facilitated over $6.0 million in public infrastructure, publicfacilities, housing rehabilitation, septic system repair, planningand design, and social/public services projects in the followingcommunities:

BlandfordInitiation of rehabilitation of housing units underthe Western Pioneer Valley Regional Community DevelopmentProgram. Initiation of a housing planning assessment.

BrimfeldContinued support of a sub-regional domestic

violence prevention planning program under the Tri-TownCommunity Assistance Program. Continuation of housingrehabilitation program for eligible residents. Implementation ofHitchcock Academy barriers removal design project.

BrookfeldContinuation of rehabilitation of housing unitsunder the Ware River Valley Community Assistance Program.

ChesterCompletion of construction of the Prospect Streetdrainage improvements project and initiation of the PhaseIII Route 20 water main replacement project. As part of the

Southern Hilltowns Community Assistance Program, continu-ation of housing rehabilitation for eligible residents; partici-pation in the domestic violence prevention program, adultliteracy, food pantry support, supplemental case managementservices, and other social service programs.

EasthamptonContinuation of the housing rehabilitationprogram for eligible residents.

Granville Initiation of rehabilitation of housing units underthe Western Pioneer Valley Regional Community Development

Program. Initiation of a housing planning assessment.

HardwickContinuation of rehabilitation of housing unitsunder the Ware River Valley Community Assistance Program.Completion of infrastructure improvements (water mainreplacement, sewer line rehabilitation, drainage improve-ments, and street/sidewalk reconstruction) to Bridge Street,

Grove Court, and Railroad Lane.

HollandContinued support of a sub-regional domesticviolence prevention planning program under the Tri-TownCommunity Assistance Program. Continuation of housingrehabilitation program for eligible residents

HuntingtonAs part of the Southern Hilltowns CommunityAssistance Program, continuation of housing rehabilitationfor eligible residents; participation in the domestic violenceprevention program, adult literacy, food pantry support,

supplemental case management services, and other socialservice programs.

LeicesterInitiation of a housing rehabilitation program foreligible residents. Completion of building improvements toLeicester Housing Authority buildings. Completion of the ADATransition Plan and Self-Evaluation Planning Project.

MiddlefeldInitiation and completion of the senior centerroof design project. As part of the Southern Hilltowns Commu-nity Assistance Program, continuation of housing rehabilitationfor eligible residents; oversight of domestic violence preven-tion planning, adult literacy, food pantry support, supple-mental case management services, and other social serviceprograms.

MonsonCompletion of infrastructure improvements (watermain replacement, drainage improvements, and street/side-walk reconstruction) to Park Avenue.

MontgomeryInitiation of rehabilitation of housing unitsunder the Western Pioneer Valley Regional Community Devel-opment Program. Initiation of a housing planning assessment.

RussellAs part of the Southern Hilltowns CommunityAssistance Program, continuation of housing rehabilitation for

Municipal Development


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eligible residents; oversight of domestic violence preventionplanning, adult literacy, food pantry support, supplementalcase management services, and other social service programs.

Southampton Initiation of rehabilitation of housing units

under the Western Pioneer Valley Regional Community Devel-opment Program. Initiation of a housing planning assessment.

SpencerCompletion of the rehabilitation of housing unitsunder the Spencer Community Development Program.

WalesContinued support of a sub-regional domesticviolence prevention planning program under the Tri-TownCommunity Assistance Program. Continuation of housingrehabilitation program for eligible residents.

WareContinuation of rehabilitation of housing units underthe Ware River Valley Community Assistance Program. Provi-sion of adult literacy programs and family support services.Continuation of a domestic violence prevention program.Completion of infrastructure improvements to the Pine Streetneighborhood and the Memorial Field planning project.Completion of the Park Street Improvements Project.

WarrenContinuation of rehabilitation of housing unitsunder the Ware River Valley Community Assistance Program.Continuation of the Domestic Violence Prevention Program.Continuation of in-town literacy and adult education servicesunder the Ware River Valley Literacy Program. Completion ofthe Crescent Street improvements project and the senior centerexpansion project.

FFY 2011 CDBG ProgramsApplied for and received nearly$4.5 million in FFY2011 Department of Housing and Commu-nity Development (DHCD) Community Development BlockGrant Funds on behalf of the towns of Huntington, Russell,Middleeld, Hardwick, Ware, Brookeld, Warren, Southwick,and South Hadley. Specic programs include:

FY2011 Town of Ware (Ware River Valley CommunityAssistance Program): $754,217 for housing rehabilitation(16-18 units); adult literacy and basic education.

FY2011 Town of Huntington (Southern HilltownsCommunity Assistance Program): $900,000 for housingrehabilitation (two units); Pine Hill Water ImprovementsProject (Russell)water main replacement and reloca-tion to benet the Town of Russell water service area;

funding for the Hilltown Elder Network (HEN) Programto serve Russell, Middleeld, and Huntington seniors;continuation of the Hilltown Social Services Project(elder services, case management, and support); continu-ation of the Southern Hilltowns Adult Education Center;continuation of the Huntington Food Pantry; continuationof the Southern Hilltowns Domestic Violence ServicesProject.

FY2011 Town of Ware: $800,000 for the Phase I Memo-rial Field Improvement Projectaccessibility improve-ments and eld lighting; continuation of the WareDomestic Violence Services Program; continuation of theFamily Support Services Program through Valley HumanServices.

FY2011 Town of Warren: $695,545 for the Nelson StreetImprovement Projectcomprehensive infrastructure im-provements including streets, sidewalks, water, curbing,drainage, guardrail, fencing, and streetscaping; Phase IPleasant and Highland Street Improvements Projectde-sign engineering for comprehensive sidewalk and streetimprovements; School Street Neighborhood PlanningProjectcomprehensive assessment and prioritization ofrequired surface and sub-surface neighborhood improve-ments; continuation of the Warren Domestic ViolenceServices Project.

FY2011 Town of Southwick: $900,000 for the SeniorCenter Expansion Projectconstruction monies for a1,900 square foot addition to the existing senior center;housing rehabilitation (approximately six units).

FY2010 Town of South Hadley: $406,450 for the Senior

Center Improvements Project..


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Administered and implementednearly $2.0 million in Depart-ment of Housing and Commu-nity Development CommunityDevelopment Fund housingrehabilitation and septic systemimprovements in the townsof Ware, Warren, Hardwick,Brookeld, Russell, Middleeld,Huntington, Chester, Southamp-

ton, Granville, Montgomery,Blandford, Brimeld, Holland,Wales, Easthampton, Leicester,and Spencer.

Continued to serve as the Region1 service provider under thecommonwealths Home Modi-cations Loan Program for thosewith disabilities to administerand implement over $500,000

in loan funds to remove privateproperty architectural, and otherhealth barriers in nearly 100western Massachusetts commu-nities. Received an additional $200,000 in funding from theCommunity Economic Development Assistance Corporationtowards additional modication projects.

Administered and implemented nearly $100,000 of Easthamp-ton Community Preservation Act funds for housing rehabilita-tion improvements for eligible residents.

Administered and implemented approximately $36,000 inUSDA Housing Preservation Grant funds for gap ller housingrehabilitation assistance for residents in rural areas.

Housing Rehabilitation andDevelopment

Completed work with Ludlow and Southampton on a two-town Priority Development Fund grant from the Departmentof Housing and Community Development to develop Chapter40R districts. Potential 40R districts were identied in eachcommunity and the two towns are working to send the nalChapter 40R application to the state.

Began work with the towns of Blandford, Granville, and Mont-gomery to develop a Housing Needs Assessment and ActionPlan for each town. The plans will be completed by June 2012.

Completed the Longmeadow Housing Needs Assessment andAction Plan and continued work with the Longmeadow Hous-ing Authority to implement some of the plans top strategies.

Developed a series of maps that show the progress of PioneerValley municipalities in implementing affordable housing strat-egies. More than 200 copies of each map have been printedfor distribution to municipalities throughout the region.

Began work on the development of a Regional Housing Plan,

an element plan of the larger bi-state Sustainable KnowledgeCorridor Project. The Regional Housing Plan will include ahousing needs assessment and a strategic action plan.

Housing Planning


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WareImplemented domestic violence prevention projectand coordinated the Ware Domestic Violence Task Force.Major projects included provision of direct services for victimsincluding a weekly support group and advocacy services;development and implementation of new police protocolwhereby police review all domestic violence calls weekly andcontact a local advocate, who then contacts victims to offersupport as part of an extended police response; implementa-tion of an extensive healthy relationship prevention campaignat Ware High School; lming and broadcasting of a show and

discussion on local TV regarding teen dating violence; servicecoordination of Ware based agencies through monthly TaskForce meetings; and ongoing implementation of an extensivecommunity education and outreach campaign through use ofnewspaper, town fairs, farmers markets, and back-to-schoolnights.

Chester/HuntingtonImplemented domestic violenceprevention project and coordinated the Southern Hilltown Do-mestic Violence Task Force. Major projects included supportof a task force-sponsored community-based non-prot agency

that provides a local domestic violence advocate to followup on police calls; development and support of a student-ledgroup to provide leadership on healthy relationships and anti-bullying projects at Gateway High School including a two-daytraining for students and staff; a series of dating violenceprevention projects and presentations at Gateway MiddleSchool including a scholarship in honor of Karen Hart and aprogram that allows high school students to help lead trainingsfor middle school students; training for local and state policedepartments; service coordination through a semi-annualprovider networking meeting and monthly task force meetings;

and community education and outreach through publicservice ads featuring local residents, back-to-school nights,visits to health center staff meetings, and local cable.

Brimfeld/Holland/Wales Implemented domestic violenceprevention project and coordinated the Tri-Town DomesticViolence Task Force. Major projects included the fourth annualwalk to raise awareness about healthy relationships and rela-tionship abuse; educational presentations and trainings with

community groups and schools; distribution of brochures andbystander ads in tri-towns and surrounding communities; andcollaboration with regional schools on community projects.

WarrenImplemented domestic violence prevention projectand coordinated the Warren Domestic Violence Task Force.Major projects included collaboration with Quaboag schoolson presentations and anti-abuse curricula materials; develop-ment of a plan to provide family support services to childrenand families experiencing domestic violence through asubcontract with the local school district; implementation ofcontract with Valley Human Services to provide support groupand counseling services for Warren residents; and distributionof brochures and other outreach material in Warren and sur-rounding communities.

Social Services


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Completed more than 1,000 newdigital cultural resource inventoryforms for the City of Northampton.

Completed a number of NationalRegister nominations, including theSchool Street Barn in Agawam, theHampden Park Historic District inHolyoke, the Frank Howard Buildingin Pittseld, Middleeld Center, and

a boundary extension to theWesteld Center Historic Districtincorporating more than 500properties.

Continued the process of obtainingstate and federal tax credit certica-tion applications for two former Catholic convents, two formerCatholic schools, a rectory, and a park in Holyoke.

Completed the state and federal tax credit certication appli -

cations for three buildings in Westeld.

Started Phase II of the Hadley barn and outbuilding inventorydocumenting about 100 barns and outbuildings, adding to thisphase interior investigation of about 30 barns.

Started National Register nominations for three historicdistricts in Leverett.

Started a cultural resource inventory of 100 properties forNortheld.

Completed historic research and writing for Slate MemorialLibrary in Gill.

Took part in public meetings regarding the damage to historicproperties in tornado-affected towns in the region.

Presented an historical overview of regional barns for theWinding River Land Conservancy.

Delivered a presentation on landscape preservation in North-eld to the New England Landscape Design Association inBoston.

Made a presentation on farm preservation to the HadleyHistorical Society.

Conducted Section 106 reviews for Department of Hous-ing and Community Development rehabilitation work in thetowns of Ware, Leicester, Easthampton, Huntington, Chester,Middleeld, Russell, Granville, Southampton, and Warren.

Historic Preservation Planning


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Continued implementing a $1.2 million scenic land protectionprogram under a grant from the National Scenic Byway pro-gram for preservation efforts on the Connecticut River ScenicFarm Byway. Identied a group of landowners to work with toprotect important scenic land parcels along the Byway throughselling agricultural preservation restrictions or conservationrestrictions.

Secured two new national scenic byway grants for the Con-necticut River Byway, including a grant to develop recreational

trails and river access, and to update the corridor managementplan. Also secured National Scenic Byway program grants toexplore linking recreational trails in the Route 112 and JacobsLadder Trail Scenic Byway region and to establish an accessdrive and parking area for a newly completed trail system inthe town of Lee along the Jacobs Ladder Trail Scenic Byway.

Collaborating with colleagues from the Franklin RegionalCouncil of Governments and the Berkshire Regional PlanningCommission, began contracting for the Route 116 CorridorManagement Plan and the Scenic Byways of Western Mas-

sachusetts marketing campaign. Both of these projects shouldbe underway early in the coming year.

Scenic Byway Planning

Hampden County Health CoalitionPVPC continued toserve as the scal and administrative agent for the HampdenCounty Health Coalition (HCHC), a group of municipal healthprofessionals representing the 19 cities and towns in HampdenCounty focusing on public health emergency preparedness.Additionally, PVPC provided administrative and programoversight of county-wide Medical Reserve Corps and SpecialPopulations Preparedness Planning consulting services.PVPCs emergency preparedness planner continued to developemergency preparedness plans for all coalition communities;

conducted discussion, communications, and exercise drillsto test these plans; and presented components of the regionspreparedness program throughout the region. These planswere put to the test in June of this year when a tornado rippedthrough Hampden County, directly affecting four coalitioncommunities. Emergency shelters opened in six communitiesfollowing the tornado, with the West Springeld shelter re-maining open for 31 days. Coalition communities, in conjunc-tion with the emergency preparedness planner and regionalMedical Reserve Corps volunteers, provided round-the-clockservice to these shelters and throughout the affected commu-

nities during the lengthy clean-up period after the storm. TheCountys emergency preparedness plans were tested again inAugust when ooding caused by Hurricane Irene necessitatedthe opening of emergency shelters in coalition communitiesfor the second time this summer. The weather events of thispast year have sparked a renewed interest in the work of thiscoalition, resulting in the engagement of many additionalcommunity partners in this work. In the coming year, PVPCsemergency preparedness planner will continue to workwith the HCHC communities, Hampden County, and localMedical Reserve Corps coordinators and special populations

consultants to reach out to these community partners and tofurther develop preparedness plans and community educationthroughout the region.

Regional Service Delivery


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Western Massachusetts Regional HomelessnessThroughPVPCs 501(c)3, the Pioneer Valley Regional Ventures Center,the commission became the administrative and scal agentfor the Western Massachusetts Network to End Homeless-ness, to aid with implementation of a $1.1 million grant fromthe Massachusetts Department of Housing and CommunityDevelopment. This pilot project was designed to coordinate aninnovative approach to addressing homelessness in Massachu-setts by implementing a model of housing rst, not shelter rst.Through this funding, the Western Massachusetts Network toEnd Homelessness (the Network) was created. The Networkis composed of over 50 individuals from Hampden, Hamp-shire, Franklin, and Berkshire Counties. The Network boastsa diverse membership, including homeless service providers,business and political leaders, university presidents, judges,and religious leaders. The Network was established to guideand oversee the work of the 11 homeless service organizations

and two staff positions that were funded through this program.Although both state funding for this pilot program and PVPCsdirect involvement ended in March of this year, the Networkand two part-time staff persons (now supported through otherfunding) remain active. During the two-year pilot period sup-ported by DHCD, 45 chronically homeless individuals werehoused and 402 families were diverted or otherwise preventedfrom becoming homeless. In addition to this funding providingdirect nancial assistance to clients, the program was success-ful in fostering increased collaboration between state agenciesand local non-prot service providers and between service

providers in the region to prevent situations of housing loss.The program also created a centralized data collection systemfor the four counties of western Massachusetts, providing for auniversal, inclusive, and accurate accounting of homeless andat-risk families and individuals throughout the area.

Continued third year of work on a $1.34 million EPA TargetedWatersheds grant for the tri-state Connecticut River WatershedInitiative. The grant, one of only 13 nationwide and the onlyone given in New England, includes ten major projects, fromreal-time water quality monitoring to stormwater managementto Smart Growth tools for water protection. PVPC is manag-ing this project with major partners including the FranklinRegional Council of Governments, Connecticut River JointCommissions, Massachusetts Water Watch Partnership, andU.S. Geological Survey. Work has included:

Coordinating third year of a volunteer water qualitysampling program for bacteria pollution in the riverand establishing a website to report results

Working with Westeld to adopt plans for a stormwaterutility

Installing a green roof at the Holyoke River AccessCenter

Working with property owners in South Hadley andHolyoke to disconnect roof downspouts and sumppumps from sewer systems

Developing toolkit of Smart Growth strategies forpublic water supply protection Constructing LID best management practices for

agricultural runoff at the UMass Farm

Continued to coordinate regular meetings and activities of theConnecticut River Clean-up Committee, including work toadminister grants for clean-up of combined sewer overowson the Connecticut River, which now total over $20 million.

Environmental and Water Quality


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Continued work on a NOAA federal grant-funded project todevelop a blueprint for bi-state cooperation on the lower Con-necticut River in Massachusetts and Connecticut, including:

Developing an intergovernmental compact to establish

a new bi-state Lower Connecticut River Partnership Creating and administering a small grants program ofover a dozen grants to improve recreational access andwater quality in the Connecticut River

Establishing a web-based riverfront recreation accessmapping system for Massachusetts and Connecticut

Began work on a Green Infrastructure Plan, which is an ele-ment plan of the larger bi-state Sustainable KnowledgeCorridor Project. The Green Infrastructure Plan seeks toimprove water quality in the regions rivers and streams whilealso creating more appealing streets and neighborhoodsthroughout the region. The plan, which will be informed byan advisory committee as well as an important public process,will identify potential locations for introducing absorptivegreen spaces in urbanized locations to capture stormwaternear where it falls. The plan will also identify municipal andstate policies that can help promote green infrastructure.

Continued a fourth year ofE. colibacteria monitoring along themain stem of the ConnecticutRiver at recreational access

locations. Also performed bacteriamonitoring and source tracking onve tributaries to the ConnecticutRiver.

Continued to facilitate the BarnesAquifer Protection Advisory Com-mittee (BAPAC) and to commenton Developments of RegionalImpact over the aquifers Zone IIrecharge area in Westeld, South-

ampton, Holyoke, Easthampton,and Northampton.

Hired by the Belchertown Land Trust, PVPC identied fundingsources for dam repair and dam removal as part of the effortto explore future alternatives for the Upper Bondsville Dam,which is rated by the state as a signicant hazard and in poorcondition. The Upper Bondsville Dam is located between

Belchertown and Palmer on the Swift River and the impound-ment created by the dam stretches into the Town of Ware.

Continued the Think Blue public education campaign aboutstormwater pollution in the 11 towns and cities participatingin the Connecticut River Stormwater Committee. Received aTURI Grant to develop organic land care program demonstra-tion projects at municipal parks in Holyoke, Ludlow, Agawam,Northampton, and Longmeadow.

2011 M j A li h t


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Coordinated the development of 100 percent design and engi-neering plans for the 3.3-mile Agawam Bikeway Loop project,which is linked to the Connecticut River Walk.

Coordinated the completion of 100 percent design and engi-neering plans for the two-mile West Springeld segment of theConnecticut River Walk and Bikeway project.

Completed work on a new PioneerValley Trails regional trails map and

hiking guide, which illustrates anddescribes hiking and biking trailsacross the Pioneer Valley region. Thismap was distributed free of chargeto communities and interest groupsacross the region. It has subsequentlymade available for sale to the generalpublic through retail outlets acrossthe region, and has been extremelypopular.

Worked with the Massachusetts Highway Department andMassachusetts Department of Fish and Game to resolve fund-ing and right-of-way issues in order to seek re-advertising ofthe construction phase of Keystone Arch Bridges restoration inMiddleeld, Becket, and Chester.

Worked with Chicopee and Massachusetts Department ofTransportation to seek to restore funding to the ConnecticutRiverwalk and Chicopee Riverwalk projects.

Coordinated the establishment of a regional ConnecticutRiverwalk Advisory Committee, with representatives fromAgawam, Chicopee, Holyoke, Springeld, and WestSpringeld.

Greenways, Trails, andRiver Protection

Initiated work on the new $4.2 million bi-state KnowledgeCorridor Sustainable Communities project in cooperationwith the Capitol Region Council of Governments in Hartford,Connecticut. The three-year project includes element plansfor green infrastructure, housing, climate action, workforcedevelopment, food security, environment, land use, and trans-portation. The project also includes three catalytic projects, in-cluding Depot Square revitalization in Holyoke, Court Squareredevelopment in Springeld, and the Connecticut Riverwalkin Chicopee.

Continued work to implement the Pioneer Valley Clean Energyplan, including providing planning assistance to 11 membermunicipalities to develop action plans to achieve designa-tion as Green Communities. Four of 11 achieved certication,bringing the region to a total of 11 certied Green Communi-ties out of 74 statewide, or 15 percent.

Secured work to serve as a local implementer and programmanager for a U.S. Department of Energy-funded pilot projectto catalyze the home energy efciency market in Springeld

and seven surrounding communities: Longmeadow, EastLongmeadow, Palmer, Belchertown, Monson, Wilbraham, andHampden.

Assisted with tornado recovery focused on energy efcientrebuilding, providing local outreach for the MassachusettsDepartment of Energy Resources.

Assisted the Town of Ludlow with development of a by-rightbylaw for solar photovoltaic energy generation.

Continued development of a new Climate Change Toolkiton local strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions andclimate change impacts.

Sustainability, Clean Energy, andClimate Action



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Completed Valley Vision Update, the third edition of theregional land use plan for the region. Worked with all PioneerValley communities to seek endorsement of the plan throughan intergovernmental compact. Continued the implementationphase of Valley Vision and provided free technical assistanceto help implement Smart Growth strategies in communities.

Continued to coordinate meetings of the Valley DevelopmentCouncil, the implementation committee for Valley Vision.Over the past year, the VDC has begun work on the Land Use

Element for the Sustainable Knowledge Corridor project.

Worked with the Town of Worthington to successfully adoptthe new Green Development Bylaw project, funded by theHighland Communities Initiative, including coordination of acommunications strategy developed by Action Media, Inc.

Continued development of new Green Development Perfor-mance Standards bylaws with Northampton, Palmer, and East-hampton. This new bylaw will allow a community to integrateadditional standards for environmental protection and address

climate change concerns through a site plan review or specialpermit process.

Continued work on PVPCs Planning Board Assistance pro-gram, which is designed to offer part-time town plannerservices for communities without professional planning staffon a fee-for-service basis. Worked with the Hadley PlanningBoard for the seventh year to provide part-time town plannerservices under this program. Tasks completed for Hadleyinclude Special Permit zoning language, research on LEDlighting standards, revised signage bylaw, and development of

an Open Space Residential Development bylaw with the LongRange Planning Committee.

Master Planning and Zoning

Continued to staff the Pioneer Valley Sustainability Networkwww.pvsustain.org, a self-sustaining membership organizationwhose members envision a sustainable, just, and regenerativefuture for our region. Served as scal agent for the Pioneer Val-ley Transition Towns movement.



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Continued work with the Town of Ludlow to develop a com-prehensive Master Plan to provide much-needed guidanceon future development. The nal draft of the plan is completeand under review by the Planning Board for the plan adoptionprocess. The Town last completed a Master Plan in 1964.

Continue to work with the Town of Southampton to developa comprehensive Master Plan to provide guidance on futuredevelopment. The second phase of work focused on draftingchapters of the plan.

Held a visioning workshop for the Town of Monson to giveresidents the opportunity to express their vision for futurerebuilding efforts for the downtown and neighborhoodsaffected by the June 1st tornado.

Continued outreach to communities in the Community Designand Predevelopment Services program to help them advancethe implementation of a broad array of smart growth projects.Services offered in this area include site planning and design,green site design and building, community outreach, projectbidding, nancial planning, and grant writing. Potentialprojects include parks, conservation areas, affordable housingcommunities, commercial corridors, streetscapes, focal areaswithin comprehensive master plans, mixed-use developments,cluster subdivisions with open space protection, reuse of

brownelds, transit-oriented developments, and other projectsthat strengthen and direct development toward existing com-munities and pursue innovative green development strategies.

Community Design andPredevelopment Services



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Conducted the 2011annual update of the Planfor Progress, the regionsComprehensive EconomicDevelopment Strategy(CEDS), which provides themost recent economic dataand priority-ranked listingof potential projects for theregion. Two of the projects

listed in the 2011 CEDS,the Caring Health Centerand the Holyoke UtilityUpgrade, were awardedfunds by the EDA this year.A new component of thereport for 2011 included adetailed discussion of regional industry clusters.

Produced a descriptive brochure to accompany the CEDS andprovide a snapshot and summary of economic initiatives in the

region. The six-page color brochure presents a report cardof progress in the Pioneer Valley and a list of major commit-ted projects of regional signicance, from transportation toredevelopment and new construction. Both the full report andbrochure are available online at www.pvpc.org under CorePlans.

Coordinated and co-facilitated regular meetings of the Planfor Progress Coordinating Council. This group represents theprivate, civic, and public sectors in the Pioneer Valley andoversees the implementation of the Plan for Progress.

Continued to convene and ultimately completed the missionof a Holyoke Innovation District Design and DevelopmentTask Force to leverage economic opportunities that will result

from the construction of a Green High Performance Comput-ing Center (GHPCC) in downtown Holyoke by a universityconsortium of UMass, MIT, Boston University, Northeastern,and Harvard. Worked closely with the City of Holyoke, Uni-versity Consortium representatives, GHPCC partners CiscoSystems and EMC, the Massachusetts Technology Collabora-tive, the Massachusetts Executive Ofce of Housing andEconomic Development (EOHED), and consultants HDR, Inc.to develop an Innovation District in Holyoke that incorpo-rates and connects with community initiatives and serves asa catalyst for economic growth in the city and the region. Aset of nal strategies with designated lead implementers wasdeveloped to pursue these goals and is available atwww.InnovateHolyoke.com.

Continue to manage the website www.InnovateHolyoke.com, posting regular news updates about the GHPCC, the In-

novation District Task Force, Ciscos Smart+Connected CitiesInitiative, and other information about the city of Holyoke.

Developed and launched Leadership Pioneer Valley (LPV),a new regional leadership program for the 69 communi-ties and nearly 700,000 residents of Hampden, Hampshire,and Franklin counties. Hired a full-time program director,Lora Wondolowski, who worked with the established LPVsteering committee of 25 leaders from throughout the Valleyto launch the program. The program was created to ll a criti-cal need for an emerging leadership development program

encompassing the entire region and representing its diversepopulations. Marketed LPV through media coverage and thewebsite www.leadershippv.org to reach potential participantsand their employers, culminating in the acceptance of 44participants for the inaugural class. Daylong trainings will beheld monthly until June 2012. The LPV curriculum was devel-oped in consultation with the directors of Leadership GreaterHartford, a successful program with a 30-year history.Assisted in obtaining funding for the Regional SustainableCommunities Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing

and Urban Development, including support for LeadershipPioneer Valley and for a regional workforce developmentplan.

Economic Development



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j p

Obtained $50,000 in U.S. Economic Development Adminis-tration (EDA) funding for tornado recovery planning efforts inaffected communities in the Greater Springeld area, includ-ing visioning, master planning, zoning, and redevelopmentproject oversight. Assisted the City of Springeld in obtaining$250,000 of EDA funding for a comprehensive master plan-ning effort for rebuilding the devastated areas.

Provided assistance to the cities of Springeld, Holyoke, Chi-copee, Ludlow, and Northampton in support of their highestpriority projects submitted for inclusion in the 2011 CEDS forpotential EDA funding.

Participated in the new BusinessWest-sponsored WesternMassachusetts Business Expo (formerly the Business MarketShow) at the MassMutual Center in Springeld, a conferenceand exhibition that featured 160 exhibitors, guest speakers,

and free business seminars. The PVPC booth featured majorpublications and information on recent projects, reports, andtechnical support provided by PVPC to the public and thebusiness community.

Continued to serve on the Council of the Berkshire-PioneerResource Conservation and Development Area, Inc., whichoperates the Massachusetts Farm Energy Program and Mas-sachusetts Forest Stewardship Program.

Secured renewal of a planning grant from the federal Eco-

nomic Development Administration (EDA) to provide ongo-ing logistical and technical support to the Pioneer ValleysEDA-designated Economic Development District, includingimplementation of the Plan for Progress and other region-wideeconomic planning activities.

Responded to about 50 requests for information or data com-ing from the media, other government agencies, nonprotorganizations, and the private sector.

Completed analysis, writ-ing, and publication of atopical data digest reporton the shifts in populationtrends in the Pioneer Valleyregion based on the newly

released 2010 Census data.The report, which exploresgeographic concentrationsof population growth anddensity, race, and ethnic-ity, is available on PVPCswebsite.

Completed analysis, writ-ing, and publishing of atopical data digest report onthe shifts in housing trends in the Pioneer Valley region basedon the newly released 2010 Census data. The report exploredgeographic concentrations of housing growth, occupancy andownership status, and seasonal housing in the region.

Completed work on a data digest report examining the effectsof the Community Preservation Act on communities in theregion.

Completed work on a data digest report examining the eco-nomic impact of human, social, and health service organiza-tions in the region in collaboration with the Human ServiceForum.

Regional Information & Policy Center



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Hosted two trainings focused on data availability and accessthrough the U.S. Census Bureau website. These sessions wereattended widely by local municipal ofcials, economic andcommunity development professionals, and nonprot organi-zation staff throughout the region.

Participated in various follow-up evaluation tasks with theMassachusetts Census Equity Fund to examine the strengthsand weaknesses of 2010 Census outreach efforts and theapproach of the U.S. Census Bureau.

Revised and updated the socio-economic prole chapter forthe regions Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy(CEDS) annual report, along with updates about the Plan forProgress region-wide indicators accountability system.

Actively participated in a coalition of regional leaders dubbed

the Cradle to Careers Design Team to develop a PromiseNeighborhoods model program to improve education andeconomic outcomes for children and families in Springeldthrough a place-based, data driven, wrap-around servicesapproach. This group submitted a Promise Neighborhoodsgrant application in September and will continue planningtowards implementation regardless of award.

Assisted the Holyoke Youth Task Force with mapping and ana-lyzing health and safety issues related to the location of liquorstores and public schools.

Conducted revisions of the State of the Region database andcompleted annual updates for indicators in the database,which includes economic, social, health, and demographicinformation for municipalities, counties, and the regionannually. Municipal proles, which were updated with 2010Census data (among other sources), can be found athttp://pvpc.org/resource_center/data-stats.shtml.

Worked with a group of regional foundations to produce anew update of the State of the People report which focuseson the health and well-being of the people in Pioneer Valley.Meetings with this group were held extensively throughoutthe summer. The published report is expected in the spring of2012 and will be followed by a companion online version of

the data, which will be updated annually.Worked with key staff at the Regional Employment Board ofHampden County and the Economic Development Council ofWestern Massachusetts to develop a new partnership,Regional Organizations Advanced Data Sharing (ROADS). Therst task of this partnership will be to create a shared database

to allow all partners to make use of each others data, creat-ing consistency and efciency across organizations. Futureprojects will explore shared data licenses, additional partners,and joint economic development publications. A consultanthas been engaged to create the online data portal required forthis rst task.

Participated in a special data and research workgroup throughthe United Way of Pioneer Valley and worked extensively onthe production of an annual UWPV data report.

Led a team of staff from PVPC and Capitol Regional Council ofGovernments to develop a logo and website for the Sustain-able Knowledge Corridor initiative. The website will be thepublic face of the Housing and Urban Development Sustain-able Communities Initiative in this region and will includea sustainable data report card, which is currently beingdeveloped.

Worked on initial implementation of Metroquest, a newonline civic engagement tool purchased by PVPC in collabo-ration with the Capitol Region Council of Governments as a

shared three-year license. This tool allows citizens to weighcompeting priorities and share their opinions about develop-ment priorities in the region. The tool will be used rst for theSustainable Knowledge Corridor project, funded by the HUDSustainable Communities Initiative, but will be integrated intomany other planning and development projects in the future.

Continued to provide technical assistance and data supportneeds to all departments of PVPC.



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Community Preservation ActPlanning Assistance

Continued outreach to communities in the Community Preser-vation Act Planning Assistance program to help municipalitieseffectively use their CPA dollars to address community hous-ing needs, protect open space, create recreation opportunities,and preserve historic resources. Services include inventoriesand assessments, development of plans, site selection anddesign, selection of consultants and contractors, developmentof zoning bylaws, and grant writing. PVPC can also assist withimplementation of local recreation, housing, and historic pres-ervation programs. Potential projects include trail waynding

systems, preservation restrictions and easements, developmentof new recreation areas, affordable housing trusts, housingrehabilitation programs, historic register designations, historictax credits, sign guidelines, and historic district zoning anddesign guidelines.

Continued work with the Town of Wilbraham to develop awatershed management plan for Sawmill Stream, a smallstream system that encompasses two tributaries and two pondsin a thickly settled residential area. PVPCs work has entailedmapping existing conditions, conducting a shoreline surveys,and water quality monitoring.

Continued work with the Town of East Longmeadow to inven-tory and evaluate the opportunities of a 283-acre site foraccommodating the Towns needs for passive recreation andtrails, active recreation facilities, and affordable senior hous-ing. Funded by East Longmeadows Community PreservationAct, PVPCs work has included producing maps that show theopportunities and constraints of the site, concept plan alterna-tives, and recommendations for moving forward.

Created a number of new videoproductions for the PVTA and theHolyoke Innovation District. Videosincluded a virtual tour of PVTAs newGillig buses for use by rst respond-ers during emergency situations andUS Census Bureau training sessionson how to use certain US Censusdata sets. Videos for public consump-tion are available for viewing on

PVPCs YouTube channel.

In the aftermath of several federally declared disasters during2011, prepared a number of GIS and photo-based maps forcommunities to use in post-disaster recovery operations. Mapswere prepared for communities affected by the tornado, hur-ricane ooding, and the severe winter storm this past October.

Designed and published numerous documents, includingthe Unied Transportation Work Program, ComprehensiveEconomic Development Strategy update, Data Digests, com-

munity development applications, trafc counts, trafc safetyand transportation studies, MARPA and PVPC information kits,and planning services brochures, among others.

Completed several products for the Pioneer Valley TransitAuthority (PVTA). Updated the PVTA System Field Guide forbus operators, revised and reprinted all PVTA summer andfall route schedules, revised xed-transit routes coverage forGIS, and prepared all PVTA route schedules for installation onPVTAs website. Completed a series of bus schedule signs forposting at select bus stops and shelters.

GIS Mapping and Graphics



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Collaborated with MassGIS, Massachusetts regional planningagencies, and the Western Massachusetts GIS users group topromote the use of geographic information system technologyamong Pioneer Valley communities through coordination ofusers group workshops, distribution of digital spatial data, andprovision of technical support.

Represented regional planning agencies on the Massachu-setts Geographic Information Council, which is charged withworking on ways to strengthen GIS activities throughout thecommonwealth.

Provided mapping and spatial analysis for PVPC projects,including pre-disaster mitigation, renewable energy strategies,pavement management and parking studies, corridor man-agement, scenic byway, trafc analysis, accident locations,transit service, environmental justice and ADA compliance,

pedestrian and bicycle system development, best manage-ment practices for water supply and watersheds, municipalopen space plans, and identication of subregional 40R SmartGrowth districts. Findings were integrated into maps andanalytical models to determine logical possibilities for futuredevelopment, protection of resources, and delivery of servicesacross our regional landscape.

Provided mapping, GIS, publication design, and publishingservices to Pioneer Valley region communities, businesses, andorganizations.

Continued to promote PVPC ascatalyst for regional prog-ress via display advertising inCommonWealth magazine, aquarterly publication producedby MassINC with a statewidepolicymaker readership, as wellas through local business adver-tising in the Afliated Chambersof Commerce of Greater Spring-eld annual membershipdirectory and communityresource guide, the GreaterSpringeld Convention andVisitors Bureau annual PioneerValley Visitors Guide, andBusinessWests annual resourceguide, among others.

Provided public outreach and publicity support for PVPCprojects and events such as the Plan for Progress; LeadershipPioneer Valley; brownelds revitalization; annual Bike Week;

hazard mitigation planning; Connecticut River clean-up andmonitoring efforts; grant awards; solicitation of public input ontransportation, community, and visioning plans; staff awardsand recognition; and release of signicant reports, maps, andother products.

Created and distributed an updated Writing and Style Guidefor PVPC staff, with a focus on specic in-house usage issuesand questions, to ensure consistency of expression in docu-ments, letters, and electronic communications. Worked withstaff to maintain and improve internal quality control stan-

dards and procedures for written products and media contact.

Communication and Outreach



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Working with staff in PVPCs Graphics section, began to inte -grate social media channels into communication and outreachefforts. Continued to provide updates to the PVPC websitethough events listings, project announcements, public inputsolicitation, and other information.

Worked to enhance PVPC staff communication skills throughin-house training, beginning with a seminar focusing on publicspeaking and presented by a professional trainer.

Provided writing, editing, and style services in support of nu-merous PVPC reports, plans, studies, publications, and otherproducts, such as newspaper guest columns, informationaland marketing copy, and specialized language and usageapplications.

Provided creative and production services and support for

various PVPC and partner projects and initiatives.

Continued to produce the Regional Reporter, PVPCs electroni-cally distributed quarterly newsletter of agency news, events,meetings, information, and announcements.

Updated, produced, and distributed PVPCs information kit tomedia, public ofcials, civic leaders, member communities,and the general public. Updated, produced, and distributedthe Massachusetts Association of Regional Planning Agen-cies (MARPA) information kit to provide concise information

about the association as a whole, as well as its 13 individualmember regional planning agencies.

Expanded outreach efforts to local media to secure coverageof signicant planning-related events, initiatives, projects, andpartnerships.

Produced PVPCs 49th annual meeting in Springeld at theLyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springeld History atthe Springeld Museums. This years meeting highlightedinnovation and invention in the Pioneer Valley during theIndustrial Revolution, many examples of which are featured inthe museum. Guest speaker Guy McLain, Director of Historyat the Springeld Museums, also conducted a guided tour ofthe museum.

PVPC received $166,000 in District Local Technical Assistancefunding in FY11 through the state Legislature, with support ofthe governor. This funding allowed PVPC to offer free technicalassistance to all member municipalities in two categories:Sustainable Development and Municipal Partnerships.

Under the Sustainable Development program, PVPC providedlocal technical assistance to 10 communities on 12 projects:

Conducted a comprehensive zoning review for the

Town of Agawam Conducted visioning workshops on the Route 47Scenic Byway for the Towns of Hadley and SouthHadley

Developed new Special Permit and Site Plan Reviewbylaws for the Town of Holland

Updated existing Open Space and Recreation Plans forthe Towns of Longmeadow and Goshen

Developed a new solar bylaw for the Town of Ludlow Researched and developed standards for Low

Impact Development and Shared Streets for the City ofNorthampton

Drafted an Economic Development chapter for theTown of Southampton

Held multiple visioning workshops and drafted zoningrecommendations for the Village Centers inWilliamsburg

Under the Municipal Partnerships program, PVPC coordinatedsix regional projects to save communities money throughregionalizing service delivery:

Electronic Town/City Hall (Web-Based Permit Tracking):

Collaborated with 22 interested cities and towns toimprove efciency and service, reduce costs, and save

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businesses and residents time, money, and fuel througha regional initiative to secure services to developelectronic town/city hall functionality for participatingmunicipalities.

Shared Conservation Agent: Undertook a detailed analy-sis to determine if a regional conservation services of-

cer can be an effective option for providing improvedconservation services to the regions communities andland trusts, resulting in cost savings.

Strategic Regional Solid Waste Management Assess-ment: Conducted a strategic assessment of current wastemanagement practices, needs, issues and solutions anddeveloped short-term and long-term action plans.

Regional Highway Department / Stormwater Services:Worked with communities to determine services thatcould be regionalized to assist towns in meeting theirnew NPDES Stormwater Permit.

Regional Dam Inspection Services: Worked in consulta-tion with the towns of Longmeadow, West Springeld,and Easthampton to prepare a bid document thatbundles together the Phase 1 Formal Inspection servicesfor one dam in each of these towns.

Regionalizing Dam Services: Worked with municipali-ties to explore and identify interest in specic servicesthat might be regionalized, helping to reduce the nan-cial burden of meeting the dam safety regulations.

Worked on behalf of the Western Region Homeland SecurityAdvisory Council (WRHSAC) to develop a regional shelter-ing plan for Hampden County; led development of a regionalevacuation plan and assisted with shelter supplies planning.

Led a research and planning effort to enhance regional com-munication systems leading up to, during, and after disasters.

Secured funding to develop four new local Hazard Mitigationplans in Granville, Longmeadow, Montgomery, and Wales,and to update one existing plan for Southwick. Facilitated ap-plication for funds to update plans for Agawam, Easthampton,Hampden, and Ware, and to develop a new plan for Russell.

Homeland Security and NaturalHazards Planning



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ChesterPerformed one daily trafc count. Coordinated tri-town meet -ing of Boards of Selectmen and a public forum on KeystoneArch Bridges Project.

Chesterfeld

Provided information on regulating small wind turbines andmodel bylaws. Provided assistance on completing work forGreen Communities designation.

ChicopeePerformed one daily trafc count. Provided 2010 Census datafor all Chicopee geographies.

CummingtonProvided information on vested rights and non-conforminguses. Provided assistance with by-right zoning bylaw for clean

energy.

East LongmeadowCoordinated with the Department of Public Works on severalinitiatives involving the Redstone Rail Trail, including as-sistance in reviewing ood damage related to the trail and theimpacts of re-grading on neighboring parcels. Performed fourdaily trafc counts.

EasthamptonReviewed the Environmental Notication Form for the pro-

posed South Street Reconstruction Project. Performed fourdaily trafc counts. Assisted in coordinating expansion ofthe Manhan Rail Trail, including consultation on the Cole-man Road expansion and coordination with MassDOT Rightof Way. Provided information on construction standards forEnergy Star. Provided assistance with correcting data inaccura-cies in MassEnergyInsight, the municipal energy use-trackingsoftware.

GoshenPerformed one daily trafc count. Worked on a local wind

bylaw to develop site plan review standards for wind energysystems.

AgawamPrepared the Towns FY2011 and FY2012 MA DHCD Com-munity Development Block Grant applications. Providedanalysis comparing Agawam poverty rates with those of WestSpringeld and the state for Economic Target Area applicationeligibility.

AmherstReviewed the Environmental Notication Form for the pro-posed Commonwealth Honors College Project. Performedseven daily trafc counts. Worked on planning efforts relatedto the rehabilitation of the Norwottuck Rail Trail, including thepreparation of meeting notices/minutes coordination amongcommittee members, DCR, and MassDOT. Provided informa-tion on affordable housing strategy and discussion on uses ofAmherst CPA funds for historic preservation inventory work.

BelchertownReviewed the Environmental Notication Form for theproposed shing area, ramp replacement, and shore stabiliza-tion project at Quabbin Gate 8. Performed seven daily trafccounts and two peak hour turning movement counts. Providedassistance on DEP grants for water quality improvements inthe Tri Lakes area.

BlandfordPerformed two daily trafc counts.

BrimfeldDeveloped a trail map for the Brimeld Trail Committeeand visited several tornado-damaged sections of the trail inorder to assess what future assistance PVPC might be able toprovide. Reviewed estimates for bridge construction costs and

met with representatives from the Army Corps of Engineers.

A Sampler of Local TechnicalAssistance


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host a Fun on the Riverwalk event in Springelds NorthEnd. Participated in guided tours of the Riverwalk. Hosteda meeting to discuss pedestrian and bicycle accommoda-tions in Massachusetts bridge projects included as part ofthe Massachusetts Accelerated Bridge Program. Worked withplanning staff and members of the Springeld Health Coalition

to review opportunities for increased levels of walking andbicycling in the city and to identify barriers or obstacles in thebuilt environment. Began work on a Complete Streets policyinitiative. Worked with area students on increasing participa-tion in Bike Commute Week activities. Responded to a Mas-sachusetts Rail Division canvass for property abandonment.Assisted the City on a response to a rst right of refusal foran abandoned railroad parcel in Springelds Mason Squareneighborhood. Reviewed two grant applications under thePreferred Sustainability Status program for Union StationRedevelopment. Reviewed two grant applications under the

Preferred Sustainability Status program for Old Hill and SouthEnd projects under HUD Choice. Assisted the City in applyingfor and obtaining an EDA Tornado Recovery Planning grant.Provided data on poverty by block group for specic targetarea. Provided demographic and consumer expenditure re-ports for the Pioneer Valley by county as well as 30-mile radiireports. Provided demographic data reports for three ZIP codesin Springeld.

TollandProvided information on Cluster Developments.

WalesPrepared the Towns FY2011 MA DHCD Community Develop-ment Block Grant application for housing rehabilitation anddrainage improvements.

WarePerformed one daily trafc count. Responded to requests forinformation on bike rack purchases and installation instruc-tions. Successfully prepared two MA DHCD CommunityDevelopment Block Grants for Ware (single) and Ware (Ware

River Valley) totaling over $1.5 million. Participated in theWare Town Planner/Community Development Directorscreening and selection process.

PelhamReviewed the Environmental Notication Form for theproposed Amethyst Brook Restoration Project/Bartlett RodShop Company Dam Removal Project. Performed seven dailytrafc counts. Provided information regarding amendments toZoning Board of Appeals decisions. Attended a community

meeting regarding the proposed Village Center area.

PlainfeldPerformed two daily trafc counts. Assisted with submission ofGreen Communities application.

RussellPerformed four daily trafc counts.

South HadleyReviewed the Notice of Project Change for the proposed South

Hadley Landll Vertical Expansion Project. Performed 12 dailytrafc counts.

SouthamptonPerformed 14 daily trafc counts.SouthwickAssisted the Town with administration responsibilities associ-ated with MassDOT District 2 Agreement 56183, a Trans-portation, Community, and System Preservation (TCSP) grantproviding reimbursement for bike path design-related tasks on

Phase II of the Southwick Rails to Trails project. Reviewed theEnvironmental Notication Form for the proposed Northamp-ton Expansion Project. Performed two daily trafc counts. Suc-cessfully prepared a $964,000 Community Development FundII DHCD Community Development Block Grant for expansionof the senior center and housing rehabilitation.

SpringfeldPerformed 11 daily trafc counts and four peak hour turningmovement counts. Supported Rails to Trails Conservancyefforts related to Springelds Connecticut River Walk and

Bikeway, including extensive outreach to local neighborhoodgroups and citizen councils. Worked with the New NorthCitizens Council and Baystate Brightwood Health center to



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West SpringfeldReviewed the Environmental Notication Form for theproposed West Springeld Transmission Main ReplacementProject. Reviewed the Draft and Final Environmental Impactreports for a proposed ALDI grocery store. Performed one dailytrafc count. Successfully applied for a $56,000 DHCD grant

to assist with tornado recovery planning. Provided extensivedemographic and health data for grant application.

WestfeldReviewed the Environmental Notication Form for the pro-posed Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation Maintenance FacilityExpansion at the Barnes Municipal Airport. Performed fourdaily trafc counts. Provided information on emergency fundsfor dam repair due to failure of spillway at Granville ReservoirDam with Hurricane Irene.

WesthamptonPerformed one daily trafc count.

WilbrahamReviewed the Environmental Notication Form for theproposed Minnechaug Regional School Project. Provided ex-tensive income, population, and poverty data for counties andmunicipalities in the region and surrounding area for a grantapplication connected with the Western Mass Enterprise Fund.

Williamsburg

Provided assistance completing work on Green Communitiesdesignation.

Regionwide Local Technical AssistanceResponded to about 50 requests for information or datacoming from the media, other government agencies, nonprotorganizations, and the private sector.

University of MassachusettsResponded to a university request for information aboutregional model development procedures. Participated as amember of the Advisory Committee for the Regional TravelerInformation Center (RTIC).


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Pioneer Valley Planning Commission60 Congress Street Floor 1

Springfeld, MA 01104-3419www.pvpc.org

Pioneer Valley Planning Commission60 Congress Street Floor 1

Springfeld, MA 01104-3419www.pvpc.org

Cover photo by Christopher Curtis

Documents

Pioneer Valley Planning Commission 2011 Major Accomplishments