Department of Planning and Development Services Community Planning

The Department of Planning and Development Services is responsible for community planning projects which include the preparation and implementation of town and village plans, grant writing and administration, and special project planning.

Town Master Plan

A Master Plan is a comprehensive, long-range plan intended to guide the growth and development of a community. Master plans consist of sections on land use, population, housing, economic development, transportation, community facilities and services, recreation and natural resources. An essential part of the Master Plan process is to include citizen involvement and incorporate goals and recommendations into the Plan. The Town Master Plan is required to be updated every five years. The most recent revision was adopted June, 2007. It is important that plans are not only prepared and updated, but also to ensure that they are implemented. The Department works with the Selectboard, Planning Commission, other commissions and departments to ensure that the goals and recommendations of the Town and Village Plans are implemented.

Village Plans

Over the years, the Department has received grant funds to prepare village plans. They include:

• Hartford Village Master Plan

• White River Junction River City Revival

• White River Junction Railroad Row Historic District Plan

The Town is working with the Hartford Development Corporation, businesses, property owners, and community members on the development of a new Revitalization Plan for White River Junction.

Regional Initiatives

The Department works cooperatively with the Two Rivers-Ottauquechee Planning Commission, other towns and State agencies and non-profit organizations on regional projects. They include:

• Connecticut River Scenic Byways Program

• Regional Bike Path System

• Housing Needs

• Transportation Systems

• Conservation

For more information

Contact Planner Matt Osborn at mosborn@Hartford-vt.org or Department Director Lori Hirshfield at lhirshfield@Hartford-vt.org

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