PLANNING SERVICES
The goal of the SWGRC's planning program is to facilitate sustainable growth through the development of local comprehensive plans and the regional plan and to facilitate implementation of those plans by assisting local governments with local ordinances, plans and regulations, identifying projects and funding sources, developing various applications, and administering local and regional projects.
General Planning
The contractual duration with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) spans from July 1 to June 30 annually.
Historic Preservation Planning
The Historic Preservation Division, established in 1995 and now part of the DCA, has been providing funding to the SWGRC to offer expert technical assistance for historic preservation projects. It is important to mention that due to limited contract funding, some services may require an additional fee.
Transportation Planning
The SWGRC, funded by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), provides assistance to communities in bike/pedestrian planning and rural transit planning.
We specialize in the enhancement and advancement of regional Bike/Ped Plans, as well as the meticulous development and execution of community-based bicycle and pedestrian programs.
Safe Routes to School (SRTS) promotes walking and bicycle safety in schools. SWGRC collaborates with the SRTS Coordinator to provide services in the region.
Conduct crash screening analysis at three locations in the region to identify potential safety project locations
Update existing sidewalk data utilizing existing information and photography for two municipalities. (GIS staff)
Update regional bike and pedestrian coridors, as needed. (GIS staff)
Pre-Hazard Mitigation Planning
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers financial assistance to local governments in the form of grants. These grants are specifically intended for the purpose of planning and implementing hazard mitigation projects prior to a disaster occurring. By funding these plans and projects, the overall risk posed to both the population and structures is reduced, potentially resulting in a decreased reliance on federal funding during actual disaster situations.
Planning & Zoning Technical Assistance
The SWGRC staff offers a range of planning services and technical assistance to local governments upon request.
Housing Plans and Assessments
Rural Zone Designations
Opportunity Zone Designations
Plan First Applications
Urban Redevelopment Plan
Revitalization Area Strategy
We offer expert guidance and support for the creation and maintenance of regulatory land use reviews and ordinances.
Our services cover a wide range of essential tasks, including:
Zoning Reviews and Recommendations
Zoning Ordinances
Subdivision Regulations
Manufactured Home Ordinances
Staff prepares specific studies for individual local governments or on a regional basis. These
studies cover all areas in which the SWGRC has the expertise, including historic preservation,
transportation, economic development, housing, human resources, and land use. These studies
and unique projects are used to inform local and state decision-makers of issues of importance.
Staff also provides training for Planning Commissioners and local government Boards.
Flood Plain Management Ordinances
Zoning Ordinances
Soil and Sediment Control Ordinances
Community and Economic Development
The SWGRC staff offers technical assistance to local governments, community leaders, and statewide developers upon request. They provide support and guidance regarding various economic development opportunities in the region.
Grant Writing
The planning staff at SWGRC provides valuable assistance to local governments in preparing grant applications for various types of projects. We keep local governments informed about grant opportunities through our newsletters, email notifications, and website. Additionally, our staff is responsible for preparing and submitting grant applications that benefit the entire region.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Brownfield Program
The EPA Brownfield Program provides grants and technical assistance to communities, states, tribes and others to assess, safely clean up and sustainably redevelop contaminated properties.
Examples include abandoned gas stations, dry cleaners, industrial and commercial properties.
USDA Housing Preservation Grant Program
The Housing Preservation Grant (HPG) Program is designed to allocate funds to qualified organizations. These funds are intended to be used for the repair or rehabilitation of housing that is occupied by families with very-low and low-income levels. The program specifically targets eligible rural areas. As part of the application process, SWGRC submits an application for these funds on an annual basis.
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Performance Standards Check List Digital Directory Age - Friendly
Rules Of DCA - COMP Planning SWGA Resource Guide Complete Streets
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