We Need Your Input

Help us make our community safer! The CSPDC is gathering feedback for our Hazard Mitigation Plan, and your voice is crucial. A Hazard Mitigation Plan outlines strategies to reduce risks from threats and natural hazards like floods, extreme weather, wildfires, and infrastructure failure. Your insights will guide us in creating a plan that reflects our region’s needs. A plan approved by the Federal Emergency Management Agency unlocks pre- and post-disaster funds for our communities. 

CSPDC Initiates Rural EV Charging Infrastructure Study

The Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission (CSPDC) has begun a Rural EV Charging Infrastructure Study as part of its Rural Transportation Program. The study aims to assess and plan for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure needs in the region's rural areas. According to Virginia EV Driving data, there are currently 865 EV-driving residents in the non-MPO, rural parts of the CSPDC Region. These drivers collectively travel an average of 25,000 miles on a typical weekday and studies indicate this number is likely to increase significantly over the next decade.

CSPDC Hosts Graduate Assistant for 2024-2025 Year

The Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission (CSPDC) is excited to announce the addition of Hardi Kamali as a Graduate Assistant. Hardi brings a wealth of experience and a unique skill set to his role at the CSPDC.

Currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration (MPA) at James Madison University (JMU), Hardi has an impressive background in humanitarian work, particularly in post-conflict regions of the Middle East and Africa.

Goodloe Joins CSPDC Staff

Elizabeth Goodloe joined the CSPDC as our newest Regional Planner on October 1. She recently transitioned to the PDC from Albemarle County where she did site plan review and drafted ordinances. Elizabeth previously worked as Planner for Augusta County working closely with Augusta County’s Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance and affiliated agencies to make land use recommendations for rezonings, evaluated request for solar projects, researched and drafted ordinance amendment to the zoning code.

45th Annual Rural Planning Caucus Conference

From October 16-18, 2024, the Rural Planning Caucus (RPC) of Virginia will hold its 45th annual conference at the historic Mountain Lake Lodge in Pembroke, VA. This year’s event will spotlight the Town of Vinton and delve into topics such as rural transportation, recreation, zoning enforcement, artificial intelligence, and legislative challenges.

In addition to engaging in discussions on rural resiliency, attendees can look forward to an annual hike and live music during the three-day gathering.

Founded in 1978 in Blacksburg, VA, the Rural Planning Caucus serves as a vital resource for planning professionals in rural and small-town settings. The organization promotes the exchange of ideas and information on planning issues that impact Virginia's rural communities and landscapes. The RPC celebrates its 46^th anniversary in 2024.

Governor's Summit on Rural Prosperity

The 2024 Governor’s Summit on Rural Prosperity, presented by the Virginia Rural Center, takes place Oct. 29-30 at Wytheville Meeting Center in Wytheville, Virginia. This multi-day event will bring together local, state and private sector representatives from across Virginia to discuss innovative initiatives occurring in rural communities.

Virginia Governor's Housing Conference

The 2024 Virginia Governor’s Housing Conference (VAGHC) is coming up November 13-15, 2024 in Virginia Beach. VAGHC is the Commonwealth's largest housing event that attracts more than 1,100 affordable housing advocates, providers, and policy makers to discuss a host of important issues affecting all Virginians. Organizations, foundations, developers, elected officials, and government and non-government professionals involved in community initiatives or industries related to housing would benefit from attendance.

Relief Efforts for Southern and Central Appalachia 

If you are looking for resources to aid in Hurricane Helene Relief for Southern and Central Appalachia, this list from Appalachian Voices is an excellent place to start. The resource list includes information on emergency management and missing persons outreach as well as a state-by-state list of verified ways to contribute to relief efforts.

Regional Facts & Figures

Regional Plans

Regional Data Center

FY 2020 Year in Review

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