The Partnership is undertaking a coordinated, regional planning process to ensure the long term economic, social, and environmental well-being of the Roanoke Valley. Central to the process will be identifying how local governments, businesses, and nonprofits can bring together their separate efforts to address issues of mutual concern. The plan will also identify opportunities that these entities have to become eligible for funding from the three federal agencies participating in the Partnership for Sustainable Communities (EPA, HUD, & USDOT). It will also include an evaluation of current barriers that may exist due to conflicting federal statutes or uncoordinated program directives.
The development of the plan will follow a four phase planning process that will emphasize scenario planning and involvement of traditionally underrepresented populations. Below is a summary of the phases:
Phase 1. Identify the trends, strengths, and challenges of the Roanoke Valley in the areas of housing, transportation, land use, energy and environment, economic and workforce development, and health and education.
Phase 2. Build upon the information gathered in Phase 1, as well as input from stakeholder groups and the public, to develop a framework of how the Roanoke Valley can support its quality of life.
Phase 3. Develop scenarios to evaluate the region’s future and strategies to meet the livability goals of its residents.
Phase 4. Create mechanisms to ensure the successful implementation of the plan.