DOT, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced Aug. 6 that they will partner with the Governors’ Institute on Community Design to provide enhanced technical guidance to governors seeking to tackle housing, transportation, environmental, and health challenges facing their states.

Established in 2005 and coordinated by Smart Growth America, the institute brings together leading practitioners and academics in government, design, development, and regional economics to help governors make informed choices about growth and development in their states.  It is headed by former Maryland Gov. Parris N. Glendening and former New Jersey Gov. Christine Todd Whitman.

This latest joint effort, part of the three-agency Federal Partnership for Sustainable Communities, is designed for states seeking to spur economic growth and development while addressing these issues.

EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson explained that the Institute helps states address local challenges in ways that are cheaper and more effective.

DOT Secretary Ray LaHood added: “By working with HUD and EPA over the last three years, we’ve made significant progress to help communities across the country become safer, healthier, and better connected. We’re excited to expand our collaboration by working directly with the Governors’ Institute to increase state transportation options.”

“With this effort, our three agencies are providing the cutting-edge technical assistance states need to create healthier, more livable communities,” said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan.