November 14, 2008—The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Center for Communities by Design has selected Orange, Massachusetts, and Port Angeles, Washington, as two of the communities that will receive technical assistance in 2009 under its Sustainable Design Assessment Team (SDAT) program, which helps communities address neighborhood revitalization, transportation infrastructure challenges, and job creation strategies.
The collaborative SDAT brings together architects and other professionals assembled from across the country to provide a roadmap for communities seeking to improve their sustainability—as defined by a community’s ability to meet the environmental, economic and social equity needs of today without reducing the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
An architect-led team of professionals including planners, hydrologists, economic development specialists, and others will be selected based on their credentials and the specific needs of each community. The SDAT will work in conjunction with local stakeholders to help shape the community’s strategy to increase sustainability. To provide the most objective assessment, team members volunteer their time and expertise and are selected from areas outside the project communities.
