Community Visioning Program applications available

AMES, Iowa -- The Iowa's Living Roadways Community Visioning Program is accepting applications for the 2010 program. Eligible communities are those that have populations of fewer than 10,000, existing transportation-related issues and a committee of volunteers willing to dedicate their time and talent to the visioning process.

The Visioning Program integrates technical landscape planning and design techniques with sustainable community action. It empowers local leaders through a planning process resulting in an enhancement plan that reflects the values and identity of the community.

Communities selected to participate are required to contribute $1,000 toward program implementation. In return, the Visioning Program provides professional services valued at more than $50,000. Since 1996, 159 communities throughout the state have benefited from the program.

The Iowa's Living Roadways Community Visioning Program is sponsored by the Iowa Department of Transportation in partnership with Iowa State University Extension Landscape Architecture and Trees Forever, an Iowa-based nonprofit organization with a mission to plant and care for trees and the environment by empowering people, building community and promoting stewardship.

Applications for the 2010 Community Visioning Program are available for download at www.communityvisioning.org. Please note that deadline for application submissions has been extended to a postmark date of Oct. 15. Selections will be announced before the end of the year.