The Virginia Association of Planning District Commissions (VAPDC) has announced Keith Smith as the winner of its 2026 Robert W. Baker Achievement Award. The award was presented last week at a meeting of the Thomas Jefferson Planning District Commission (TJPDC) in Charlottesville. The Baker Award recognizes persons who have been involved directly in planning district commission activities and who have contributed significantly to promoting regional planning and development in Virginia while impacting more than one PDC.

Mr. Smith is the most recent chair of the TJPDC and recently left the Commission after 15 years of service. He served many years as Treasurer for the Commission, and at various times as a member of the Executive Committee, the Finance/Executive Committee, and the Building Committee. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Central Virginia Regional Housing Partnership (CVRHP), a regional advisory body comprised of public, private, nonprofit, and citizen representatives, served as both Chair and Vice-Chair of the CVRHP and presented to multiple governing boards in the region about housing needs and the work of the Partnership.

“Keith’s dedicated service includes supporting the agency through multiple executive leadership transitions,” said Christine Jacobs, TJPDC Executive Director, in making the nomination. “He has been a tireless advocate for the work and services of the TJPDC during his time on the Commission and is very deserving of recognition for his service, leadership, and commitment to regionalism.”

Robert W. Baker helped organize the Southside Planning District Commission and served as its Executive Director from 1969 until his death in 1976. He recognized the pressing need for regional planning and cooperation and specialized in initiating regional projects. He also was at the forefront in organizing the Virginia Association of Planning District Commissions and served as President in its early years.

Planning District Commissions were enabled by state legislation in 1968 and most were established the following year. There are 21 PDCs and Regional Commissions in Virginia made up of elected officials and citizens appointed by local governments. The purpose of Planning District Commissions is to encourage and facilitate regional solutions to problems of area-wide significance. This is done by promoting the efficient development of the physical, social, and economic policies of all districts by assisting local governments to plan for the future. The PDCs of Virginia joined together to create the Virginia Association of Planning District Commissions in 1987 to share best practices and further regionalism across the Commonwealth.