Job Oppty: Senior Planner, Albemarle County

SENIOR PLANNER

 (CURRENT DEVELOPMENT)

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

The Senior Planner conducts planning level research, policy and regulatory development and management of projects. Emphasis of assignments will be on physical design aspects of planning. Will also assist other planning projects or teams.

QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge and expertise in comprehensive planning, physical/urban design, and development review. Thorough knowledge of principles, practices and techniques of urban planning as they pertain to design and development of urban areas, planning research, zoning and community redevelopment activities. Good communication, writing and presentation skills are important, as well as the ability to research and analyze data related to planning issues. Experience in working with citizen committees and neighborhood planning processes is helpful.   Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university, supplemented by a master’s degree in urban and/or regional planning and a minimum of two (2) years experience in professional planning work. Experience in urban design is desirable. SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:  Possession of a valid appropriate driver's permit issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia. 

PHYSICAL CONDITIONS & WORK CONTACTS:   Typically involves walking/standing in office environment to meet public, show displays, work with other departments and retrieve files. Also involves light lifting and other physical activities including use of computers and motor vehicle operation. Field reviews may involve walking on fairly rugged terrain. Field work requires spatial interpretation, judging heights, distances, slopes, etc. Works with citizen committees requires ability to work with displays and communicate verbally. Frequent and regular contacts made at all level of county staff and the general public. Communication is generally cooperative, but may require considerable tact, persuasion and diplomacy.

SALARY: $45,556 - $54,667/Annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: Until filled

Contact Info:

William D. Fritz, AICP

Chief of Current Development

434-296-5832 ext. 3242

Funding opportunities for Graduate Students

Dear Graduate Program Coordinators,

The Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) at Virginia Tech would like to encourage fellow graduate students to take advantage of the funding opportunities available for research and travel. The Graduate Research and Development Program (GRDP), serves to provide financial assistance to Master and PhD candidates for degree contingent research conducted in Virginia Tech. Likewise, the Travel Fund Program (TFP) is designed to meet these needs by providing graduate students financial assistance for presenting at conferences and scientific meetings, travel expenses, registration fees, lodging, meals, and other various expenses. The program also can be used to support international travel.

For more information on how to register and application process, visit our website http://www.gsa.uusa.vt.edu/programs. The online application process will be opened on September 14th, 2011 and close on October 15th, 2011 for the Fall Cycle. Please direct interested graduate students to the workshop on September 15th from 7:00 pm-9:00 pm in Graduate Life Center Meeting Room F to learn about programs and the application process. In addition, we are actively seeking faculty members to become involved in the GRDP review and selection process. Any interested faculty member can email gsa@vt.edu and state their interest as serving as a faculty reviewer.

Please pass along this information to departmental faculty and graduate students.

Sincerely,
Milad Radiom & Franklin Warren
GRDP and TFP Program Chairs
Graduate Student Assembly

Neighborhood Development Internship (Unpaid)

Neighborhood Development Internship (Unpaid)

USGBC has an opportunity for a practical learning experience for a currently enrolled graduate or undergraduate student through an unpaid internship with its LEED for Neighborhood Development team during the 2011 Fall semester.

The Neighborhood Development Internship is an opportunity to gain a strong understanding of the LEED for Neighborhood Development technical criteria, market outreach strategy, and policy research; as well as gain knowledge of smart growth, urbanism, and green building. Candidates must be able to work in USGBC’s Washington, D.C., office. The ability to work 20-40 hours per week for a 3 month period is preferred but not required.

This internship is unpaid, and is available in exchange for school credit.

Internship Details Include:
Work on the development of an interactive educational session about LEED-ND for an upcoming conference.
Analysis of LEED-ND pilot projects and the strategies they used to achieve certification.
Provide assistance to Affordable Green Neighborhoods Grant Program.
Research and write case studies and PowerPoint slides on LEED-ND projects and complete guidance for market sectors.
Develop content and outreach for an upcoming exhibit about sustainable neighborhood development.

Education and Training Requirements/Preferences:
Current enrollment in graduate or undergraduate program in Urban Planning, Public Policy, or Environment Science, or a related field required

Experience Requirements:
Prior experience working in an office environment preferred

Other Required Skills and Qualifications:
Strong written and research skills
Excellent project coordination, organizational, and problem-solving skills with meticulous attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple projects, set priorities, and work with short deadlines
Strong sense of personal responsibility and accountability for delivering high quality work
Team player with strong interpersonal skills
Commitment to USGBC mission

For more information and to apply, visit www.usgbc.org/jobs

New Games: Parking Ticket Game Arcade

From the August 29 Games for Change listserve:

Parking Ticket Game Arcade –For Immediate Release

TimeMight Corporation is about to release Parking Ticket Game Arcade in the upcoming week.

The games are very simple in nature and meant educate as well as to help drivers avoid getting ticketed and towed in most situations.
New York City Alone currently issues over 500 million dollars in these types of infractions and related charges. What about around the country and the world?
Hopefully, our games and site information will be a useful tool for motorists.

The initial four games being released is as follows:
Ticket Trap Is a serious five level question and answer game to help you practice with many types of often confusing parking regulations. Play through these five levels and increase your chances of avoiding parking tickets and towing! (In English & Spanish)
Matching Signs Noticing the details of a parking sign can mean the difference of having a good time on the town or having a terrible time at the pound! Match these signs and train your eye to see the little details on parking signs!
Snow Emergency During the winter months many thousands of vehicles are ticketed and towed because of snow. Play this fun game and read some of the hints for avoiding Snow Emergency parking tickets!
Parking Ticket Fight In real life many drivers throw money away on parking tickets, booting and towing. Throw your money bags here on this game and not in real life to raise your awareness of the dangers of on-street parking!

Trial games can be viewed at: http://foreverydrivereverywhere.com/siteGames/freegames.php

The main site that will link the games is:
https://www.parkingticketgame.com

John Staniszewski, TimeMight Corporation
9177710168
Parking Ticket Game Arcade
For Every Driver Everywhere

FB http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ticket-Trap-wwwParkingTicketGamecom/57471542900

Call for Proposals: WTPD Online Conference on Public Spaces

We're glad to share this announcement from the World Town Planning Day Online Conference Committee:

"SAVE THE DATE

World Town Planning Day

Online Conference 2011

Going Public: Spaces in our Communities

1-2 November 2011

Welcome back,

It’s that time of year again in which planning professionals from around the world start to think about how they are going to contribute to this increasingly popular event – the World Town Planning Day Online Conference.

History of the WTPD Online Conference

This will be the third WTPD Online Conference and we are looking to continue breaking the attendance record every year.  This initiative was borne out of a group of passionate planners chatting and wanting to share thoughts and ideas with other equally passionate professionals from around the world.  Now we have planning associations from all continents represented on the Organizing Committee, intent on growing this event, and supporting its development as the ultimate way to celebrate World Town Planning Day every year.

Evaluation of 2010 Conference

We received great feedback throughout last year’s event and there is obviously an appetite for this event to continue.  We are currently working on the final preparations for this year’s event and so if there are any other matters we should take into consideration, we would welcome any comments.

Please click on the link below to fill out our very brief survey on last year’s conference.

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/8P6CQMH

The survey has only eight questions and should take just a few minutes to fill out.  We thank you in advance for helping us improve to have a better conference this year.

2011 WTPD Online Congress Theme – Going Public: Spaces in our Communities

The focus for this year’s Conference is our public spaces.  We will share ideas from around the world, about how we are planning for and designing our public spaces to be even more public, as well as supplement for less private space. 

Attached to this email is the official Call for Proposals, so if you’d like to propose a session for this year’s conference please take a look.  if you have any questions or responses to the comments above to our 2011 Conference Chair, Laura Buhl (planningtheworld@gmail.com).

We look forward to your attendance at the 2011 WTPD Online Conference in November.

Regards,

The WTPD Online Congress Committee"

Volunteers needed for NPS bike count

Dear Urban Affairs and Planning students,

Our former student Thomas Sheffer, now Community Planner for the National Park Service/George Washington Memorial Parkway, has asked for help. The National Park Service is coordinating a major bike/pedestrian trail counting event along the Mount Vernon Trail in mid September and is in need of volunteers. While the final dates have not been finalized as of yet, counts will likely take place on Saturday, September 10th and Tuesday, September 13th.

Please take a look at the attached flyer and the email below.  Please also note that Thomas thinks that the count data could be used for a capstone project.

Please send you emails about the count directly to: Timothy Bevins or Thomas Sheffer:
Timothy_Bevins@partner.nps.gov or Thomas_Sheffer@nps.gov

Thanks,

Ralph

Here is Thomas' email:

Hi Ralph,

I hope the first week of classes is going well!

As I mentioned in our conversation last week, the National Park Service is coordinating a major bike/pedestrian trail counting event along the Mount Vernon Trail in mid September and is in need of volunteers. Working collaboratively with Arlington County, the data from these counts will contribute to a national bike and pedestrian survey (http://bikepeddocumentation.org) as well as ongoing planning efforts to help improve the safety, capacity, and connectivity of the Mount Vernon Trail. Time commitment would only be for a few hours in addition to a training run by Arlington. Attached is a flyer with additional information.

This a great opportunity for students – data collection, transportation planning, pedestrian/trail planning, agency cooperation, National Parks, volunteer experience – it really covers a lot of bases!  Additionally, the NPS planning efforts connected to this count have a range of potential opportunities for capstone projects for students that have a particular interest in these areas.

While the final dates have not been finalized as of yet, they will likely take place on Saturday, September 10th and Tuesday, September 13th. If you can pass this on to students you think may be interested, I would greatly appreciate it. This is only a couple weeks away, so please have those interested contact Tim Bevins, the coordinator for this count, asap at timothy_bevins@partner.nps.gov.

Thanks!

Thomas

Thomas Sheffer
Community Planner
George Washington Memorial Parkway
office 703-289-2512
mobile 202-320-6282

Job Oppty: Planner position open at the City of Takoma Park

Planner Position Open

Ready for the rough and tumble planning world of Takoma Park?

The City of Takoma Park offers a planning position at the macro and micro level in the progressive, alternative community of Takoma Park.  We need an organized, outgoing, personable addition to the Housing and Community Development office to design and conduct community, association and investor outreach for revitalization projects and mixed-use redevelopment, help international small businesses grow their market share, implement a variety of projects on time and within budget, and further the multi-modal transportation goals of the City.  

The successful applicant will work with a dedicated planning staff in an office just a ten minute walk from the Takoma Metro station and in a community 20 minutes from downtown Washington, DC. 

The position is grade 32, with an hourly range of $24.93-27.70 depending on qualifications.  Competitive benefits package provided.

Basic Qualifications

§ A masters degree from an accredited college or university program in community planning, urban design, economic development, or a related field and one to two years of progressively responsible experience or the equivalent.  

§ Experience in project management, grant writing and administration, meeting and workshop facilitation, and community organizing.

§ A valid state drivers license.

§ A strong interest in revitalization, smart growth, and redevelopment. 

AICP accreditation preferred.

Required Skills

§ Strong written and oral communication  

§ Strong interpersonal/community organizing and outreach

§ Competency in word processing, spreadsheets and PowerPoint

§ Urban design

NCI certified manager, GIS, Adobe Creative Suite competency, and fluency in Spanish, French or Amharic preferred.

Application Submissions

§ Letter of interest

§ Resume

§ City of Takoma Park Employment Application (www.takomaparkmd.gov)

§ Two page writing sample

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Deadline

Applications received by Tuesday, September 6 will be considered for the first round of interviews.

E-mail, fax or mail materials to:

City of Takoma Park

Human Resources

Attn:  Johnathan Edmund

7500 Maple Avenue

Takoma Park, MD 20912

JohnathanE@takomagov.org 

Fax: (301) 270-8794

www.takomaparkmd.gov 

www.theNewAve.com

Tuesdays at APA in DC: Aug 30th/Planning Capital Bikeshare

You’re Invited!

Tuesdays at APA-DC
August 30 @ 5:30pm
Planning Capital Bikeshare

Speakers:
Jim Sebastian, AICP | District Department of Transportation (DDOT)
Charlie Denny | Alta Planning + Design
Tommy Wells | DC Councilmember (Ward 6)

As the first true bikeshare system in the United States, Capital Bikeshare is a big hit in the District and Arlington. With early success, the program is set to expand the system with more and larger stations and further connect the metropolitan area. Hear from the District Department of Transportation, Alta Planning + Design, and a DC Councilmember on the future of the DC area's exciting new bikeshare program.

CM | 1.0

RSVP for the August 30 Tuesdays at APA

Learn more about this event and upcoming events on the APA website

Tuesdays at APA–DC
Join APA in Washington, D.C., each month for this after-work lecture and discussion series. Practicing planners, researchers, and professionals from allied fields discuss innovative ideas and concepts or present their latest projects.

The events are free and open to APA members and nonmembers.

Directions
Please enter on 15th Street and check in with security desk
American Planning Association - Headquarters
1030 15th Street, NW, Suite 750 West
Washington, DC 20005
Metro – Farragut North (red line)
McPherson Square (orange/blue lines)
Parking available in paid parking lots or on street

See you there!

Community Planning Assistance Team Internship at APA

Fall Internship at American Planning Association (APA)

The American Planning Association (APA) has an opening for an intern position at its national headquarters in Washington, DC.

The American Planning Association is an independent, not-for-profit, educational organization that provides leadership in the development of vital communities by advocating excellence in community planning, promoting education and citizen empowerment, and providing the tools and support necessary to meet the challenges of growth and change.

The intern will work primarily on the Community Planning Assistance Team (CPAT) initiative (http://planning.org/communityassistance/teams), which is run by APA’s professional institute, the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP). The CPAT initiative provides direct technical assistance to communities who lack planning resources. By pairing a multidisciplinary team of expert urban planning professionals from around the country with residents and other stakeholders from local communities, the place-based initiative seeks to foster community education, engagement, and empowerment.

Tasks will include: assisting in the preliminary review of community applications, maintaining project databases, contacting community representatives to request information, online research, preparing Power Point presentations during the application review process, developing briefing book materials for CPAT Team members, compiling lists of news media outlets, assisting with media release distribution, writing and circulating emails for targeted efforts, and general administrative assistance. Other duties may include assisting staff on other APA programs and initiatives as needed.

APA seeks graduate-level candidates who have an interest in community planning and engagement. Applicants must possess excellent writing and verbal skills, solid research and organization skills, a good eye for detail, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and an eagerness to learn. Sufficient computer skills in MS Word, Excel, Power Point, and Outlook are a must.

Preference will be given to candidates who can continue the internship through this spring.
This is an unpaid internship. Hours are flexible, between 14 and 21 hours per week (2 or 3 days a week). The internship will begin the week of August 29th.

How to Apply:
Please send a resume, cover letter, and short (1-3 pages) writing sample via email to Monica Groh at mgroh@planning.org with “CPAT Internship” in the subject line. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

Job Oppty: PT Project Coord Position - Mosaic Urban Partners

Position Description:

Mosaic seeks a “rock star” Project Coordinator to fill an on-demand position to provide project and administrative support to the firm’s professional staff. Mosaic’s ideal “rock star” team member will be a jack of many trades who will execute project and administrative support tasks with the same rigor that they apply to their personal passions – be they drafting a fantasy football team or keeping up with a favorite online blogger (Loose Lips anyone?). A prospective candidate must be willing to live the phrase, “build the airplane as you fly it,” and appreciate the challenge of solving a problem they’ve never seen before. A strong desire to expand professional skills, an ability to improve on existing practices, and a commitment to taking responsibility for all work products are also important qualities of Mosaic’s preferred candidate. This position offers an opportunity to be part of a unique organizational culture and to take on higher levels of responsibility. Please refer to the attached exhibit for more information about Mosaic.

II. Responsibilities
Support client and project work by producing presentations, proposals, and editing reports
Perform web-based research activities for Mosaic staff and clients
Create and edit marketing materials
Original writing of blog posts, presentations, reports, and proposals
Interface with certain clients, vendors, and other external people on behalf of Mosaic
Support office operations by managing vendors and office infrastructure; coordinating meeting and travel logistics; and executing administrative tasks such as filing and screening calls

III. Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and 2 years experience working in an office environment required ? Advanced skills with Microsoft Office applications required ? Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment which requires working both independently and as part of a team required ? Self starter who takes initiative and identifies opportunities to improve operations and outcomes required ? Cover letter and resume must be submitted with the subject line “Public-Private Passion”
• Mosaic prefers candidates with excellent writing skills, experience with proposal-drafting and client communications, and a demonstrated interest in real estate and economic development or urban planning

IV. Other Terms
The Project Coordinator will work under an independent contractor agreement with Mosaic and will not be an employee of the firm. The successful candidate will be expected to perform work upon request, but is projected to work approximately 15 hours per week on average on a mutually agreeable schedule. As an independent contractor, the Project Coordinator will be compensated on an hourly basis and paid twice monthly. Mosaic seeks a candidate whose qualifications and rockstar abilities justify an hourly fee between $17 and $25.

V. Process Information
Please submit a cover letter and resume by e-mail only to: Rachael Preston, Project Manager, Mosaic Urban Partners, LLC, at rpreston@mosaicurban.com. Please indicate in your e-mail how you were made aware of this opportunity.

Note: We are appreciative of anyone interested in working with us.
However: (1) No phone or in-person inquiries please and (2) Due to time constraints, we are unable to personally contact each applicant.
If we are interested in scheduling an interview, a Mosaic representative will contact you.

Exhibit A: About Mosaic
Mosaic Urban Partners, LLC is a small and entrepreneurial real estate development and advisory services firm whose worldwide headquarters* is located in Washington, DC. We tackle urban redevelopment challenges in our core business lines with a commitment to excellence, a belief in integrity, and passion. That’s right. We said passion. We believe that our passion sets us apart. We have a passion for excellence that causes us to bring our “A” game to every endeavor, whether it’s a simple internal office project or a complex project for a client or a community. We give our team members as much work and responsibility as they can handle, and then some. Luckily, we all pitch in and we all help each other because excellence at Mosaic is a team sport. We have a passion for transforming urban communities, and that passion acts as a unifying force between all of the work we do. Mosaic’s efforts will positively impact the people who live, work & play in the communities we transform. Finally, we are passionate about creating a fun work environment. We play as hard as we work. Impromptu ice-cream socials or happy hour with your hometown beverage are the norm, not the exception. Overall, Mosaic offers talented, energetic and challenge- seeking individuals an opportunity to work in a fun, results-driven environment on projects that will shape urban communities.

(*Okay, we only have one office, but we dream big around here)

Job Oppty: Public Transit Projects and Grants Specialist

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT
Public Transit Projects and Grants Specialist


The Northern Virginia Transportation Commission (NVTC) has an immediate opening for a Project and Grants Specialist. This challenging position offers outstanding opportunities to interact with local and state elected officials and their staffs in order to improve traffic congestion, air quality and energy efficiency through public transit and ridesharing.

Duties include managing existing NVTC state and federal grants for such projects as bus rapid transit, Metrorail station improvements, light rail and other multi-modal facilities. Also included are preparation of Requests for Proposals for new projects and careful adherence to and documentation of all associated state and federal grant requirements. A complete job description is attached.

NVTC has a small staff located in new offices in the vibrant Court House area of Arlington. The mission and responsibilities of NVTC include financial management and legislative advocacy as well as project management. The agency is funded by its state and local government members in a district covering over a thousand square miles with a population of 1.6 million. Please refer to NVTC’s website at www.thinkoutsidethecar.org.

This position requires a college degree and at least five years of relevant experience supported with strong references. Excellent written and oral communication and skills in spreadsheets and graphics are mandatory.

Outstanding benefits are provided (life, health, dental, disability insurance; pension; pre-tax child care and medical cafeteria plan; free parking or parking cash-out; tax-free transit benefit of $230 monthly). The competitive salary depends on experience and qualifications.

The job will remain open until filled. NVTC is an equal opportunity employer. Please provide a complete resume including your salary history and requirements, as well as a letter describing your qualifications and interest in this specific position, to:

Executive Director
NVTC
2300 Wilson Boulevard
Suite 620
Arlington, VA 22201

Email: nvtc@nvtdc.org

Winners Announced for VT UAP “What is Urban Planning?” YouTube Contest

August 17, 2011

VTMURP2011 (Dustin Akers, Scott Lail and Devon Prater) and Hershey5833 have been named the winners of the Virginia Tech Urban Affairs and Planning YouTube video contest. Contestants were asked to submit a short 2-3 minute video on the topic “What is Urban Planning?”. See the VTMURP2011 video at http://youtu.be/vAt-LwbLf5A and the Hershey5833 video at http://youtu.be/mfqDuRmbeZg.

Both winners will receive $250 USD and their videos will be featured on the VT Urban Affairs and Planning You Tube channel (YouTube username UAPVirginiaTech).

Please join us in congratulating both winners!

Job Oppty: Public Transit Policy Analyst

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT
Public Transit Policy Analyst

The Northern Virginia Transportation Commission (NVTC) has an immediate opening for a Transit Policy Analyst. This challenging position offers outstanding opportunities to interact with local and state elected officials and their staffs in order to improve traffic congestion, air quality and energy efficiency through public transit and ridesharing.

Duties includes performing policy analysis and research involving transit performance; serving as staff liaison to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, the Virginia Railway Express (which is co-owned by NVTC) and the Transportation Planning Board; and providing technical expertise in such subjects as transit technology, air quality, emergency response, bicycle/pedestrian access, land use and vanpool incentive programs. A complete job description is attached.

NVTC has a small staff located in new offices in the vibrant Court House area of Arlington. The mission and responsibilities of NVTC include financial management and legislative advocacy as well as project management. The agency is funded by its state and local government members in a district covering over a thousand square miles with a population of 1.6 million. Please refer to NVTC’s website at www.thinkoutsidethecar.org.

This position requires a college degree and at least three years of relevant experience supported with strong references. It requires a passion for public transit, an analytical mind, creativity, strategic thinking and skills in statistics. Excellent written and oral communication and expertise in spreadsheets, statistical packages and graphics are mandatory.

Outstanding benefits are provided (life, health, dental, disability insurance; pension; pre-tax child care and medical cafeteria plan; free parking or parking cash-out; tax-free transit benefit of $230 monthly). The competitive salary depends on experience and qualifications.

The job will remain open until filled. NVTC is an equal opportunity employer. Please provide a complete resume including your salary history and requirements, as well as a letter describing your qualifications and interest in this specific position, to:

Executive Director
NVTC
2300 Wilson Boulevard
Suite 620
Arlington, VA 22201

Email: nvtc@nvtdc.org

Keeping up with Communication Technology: An online workshop on the practical use of social media and web-based tools | Conferences

Keeping up with Communication Technology: An online workshop on the practical use of social media and web-based tools | Conferences

Wed Aug 17: Sustainable Communities Grant Program Webinar

We're glad to share this announcement from PolicyLink:

Wednesday
August 17, 2:00-3:00 pm EDT

Sustainable Communities Grant Program: Making Equity in Housing, Transportation, and Jobs the Heart of Your Region's Application

"The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has recently announced its second year of Sustainable Communities funding to allow regions to plan for strengthening their economies. The $65 million HUD-DOT-EPA Sustainable Communities Regional Planning grants and the $28 million HUD-DOT Challenge grants are an important and new opportunity to make this happen. Please see the Notice of Funding Availability. Pre-applications are due August 25th, with full applications due September 26th. A key success factor in the creation of sustainable regions is planning for greater economic and social inclusion of communities, workers, and places that have been left behind.  

Join PolicyLink, HUD, and leading regional planners to discuss best equity practices to drive planning and investments in housing, health, environment, transportation, and other infrastructure needs. And learn about the PolicyLink 2011 Sustainable Communities Regional Planning Grant Guide to help build best practices for addressing equity into a winning application and planning process. The guide also highlights successful applicants from the 2010 grant rounds.

Speakers:

• Dwayne Marsh, Senior Advisor, HUD Office of Sustainable Housing and Communities
• Jeff Taebel, Director, Community and Environmental Planning, Houston-Galveston Area Council
• Tracy Reich, Director, Community Programs, Impact Capital, Seattle Washington

Moderator:

• Kalima Rose, Director, PolicyLink Center for Infrastructure Equity

We look forward to having you on the webinar." 

Call for APA Conf Session Proposals on Food Planning, Due Aug 23

American Planning Association’s (APA)
Food Interest Group
Call for Food Planning Session Proposals
For APA’s 2012 Conference in Los Angeles
Deadline: August 23

The APA has released a call for session proposals for their April 14-17 conference in Los Angeles. The exciting news about this conference is that there is a special track devoted to Food System Planning. APA had a special track on food system planning in both 2005 and 2006. APA describes this track on their web site:

Whether it's eating locally, raising chickens in the backyard, protecting land for food production, or addressing urban food deserts, planners are developing a systems approach to the issues of food planning. Examine how food systems planning should relate to the comprehensive plan and daily work of the planner. Find out how the public sector is working with the private sector to address problems and support sustainable practices.

APA’s Food Interest Group (FIG) wants to encourage those that are involved in food system planning initiatives and projects to submit a session proposal. Topics related to specific sectors of the food system, including case studies that illustrate how challenges of creating a healthy, local food system can be overcome are welcome. Sessions will ideally include planners and non-planners and illustrate how food system planning is being integrated into mainstream planning. Specific questions that could be addressed in a session proposal include:
· How do cities address local food distribution (e.g. creating food hubs, or local distribution centers, and direct marketing services and venues)? What can planners do?
· How can cities plan for regional and local agriculture when regional and city governance is uncommon?
· Can pricing ecosystem services and offsets play a role in creating sustainable food systems?
· Provide examples of how the federal Healthy Food Financing Initiative, or other incentive programs like it, has helped establish grocery stores in communities of need.
· How can we plan for the use or diversion of food waste from landfills, such as composting?
· Are there limits to the interventions that planners can employ to ensure that local food is more viable and economic than non-local foods?
· Are there private sector examples and/or private-public partnerships that support sustainable food system practices?

Of particular interest is a discussion of the roles that public institutions can play in developing sustainable regional food systems – as well as the role of planners.

Please note that all conference speakers are required to register for the conference. Most will be paid registrants, although some may qualify for a discounted rate, and others will qualify for a guest registration. Be sure to review the registration policies carefully prior to submitting this proposal, and be sure to share this policy with any invited speakers. It is important to be aware that each session is required to have at least one APA member participating, either as a speaker or as a moderator.

FIG encourages you to visit APA’s conference web site to find out more about the 2012 conference and to complete a session proposal (http://www.planning.org/conference/ index.htm). The deadline for submitting a proposal is August 23, 2011.

Job Oppty: Regional Coastal Planner

REGIONAL COASTAL PLANNER”: Excellent opportunity to live and work in a rural/suburban area on the Chesapeake Bay. Responsibilities include professional and technical work in Coastal Zone Management, Economic and Community Development. Work areas include coastal economic development and job creation; coastal land conversion, harbor-commercial seafood infrastructure planning, water use conflict management, public land management, public access planning, land use impacts of failing septic systems and transportation planning.  Requirements include a degree in planning or other appropriate field, computer literacy including GIS, and excellent written and oral communication skills. Advanced degree a plus. Salary Range $30,000-$37,000 and 125 Cafeteria Plan. Excellent benefits package (Virginia Retirement System). Send letter of interest with resume to: LLawrence@mppdc.com or mail to: Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission, POB 286, Saluda, VA 23149. Position open until filled. The MPPDC is an equal opportunity employer.

Job Oppty: Policy Analyst, Housing Commission

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Policy Analyst, Housing Commission

The Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) is a non-profit organization that was established in 2007 by former Senate Majority Leaders Howard Baker, Tom Daschle, Bob Dole and George Mitchell to develop and promote solutions that can attract public support and political momentum in order to achieve real progress. 

The BPC is currently seeking a Policy Analyst to assist with the organization’s new Housing Commission.  Housing was at the very heart of the fiscal and financial crisis that erupted in 2007.  That crisis and its aftermath have left the housing markets, and much of our housing policy apparatus, in wreckage.  The effect on American families has been devastating and the crisis continues to unfold with no end in sight.  In 2011, almost four years after the beginning of the crisis, and after 2.3 million families have lost their homes to foreclosure, housing prices have begun to drop again. The nation’s housing markets and policies need to be remade.      

Decisions made today and over the coming decade will determine the nature of our housing finance system; the relative role of the private market and the government in that system; the nature and form of policies that produce decent housing options for all, either through rental or ownership; the regulatory barriers impacting access to decent housing; the need for national mortgage servicing and foreclosure standards; and countless other fundamental issues. The bipartisan Housing Commission will help define and shape the debate.

 General Duties and Responsibilities:

The position of Policy Analyst is a versatile one, involving a variety of tasks, always simultaneously. Responsibilities include research, analysis, writing, and editing; strategic policy and tactical thinking; organizational management of meetings, events, communications, and contacts; and proactive engagement on numerous other issues ranging from grant fundraising to blogging. The Policy Analyst position is one in which you will be expected to learn quickly on the job, and you will have the opportunity to directly interact and engage with top leaders in the field. As part of a growing think-tank, you will also be challenged to think creatively about non-policy issues such as project direction, strategy, and bipartisanship.

Qualifications:

• Ability to multi-task on numerous projects, large and small, in both collaborative and independent situations
• Strong research, writing and organizational skills
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively 
• Knowledge of housing and/or housing finance policies
• Preference for 1 -2 years public policy or Capitol Hill experience
• Applicant must have completed a B.A.

The BPC offers a highly competitive salary and provides generous benefits.  Individuals interested in this position should send cover letter and resume to jobs@bipartisanpolicy.org by Friday, August 26, 2011.

The BPC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

2011 Fall Policy Intern Positions Available in CFSC's WDC Office

We're glad to share this announcement from Megan Lott of CFS: 

Community Food Security "is currently accepting applications for fall internships.  Both full-time and part-time positions available. The intern will be based in CFSC’s Policy Office in Washington, DC. Hours are between 9am and 5:30pm Monday through Friday.  Start and end dates are somewhat flexible.

The position will provide the opportunity to learn about legislative and administrative aspects of federal policy through attendance at meetings, briefings, and hearings on Capitol Hill.  Duties include research and writing for outreach materials, position papers, and CFSC's monthly policy newsletter. The intern will also manage incoming calls and share other administrative duties with the CFSC staff. The ideal candidate will have interest in community food security issues and policy, good attention to detail, strong research and writing skills, and the ability to meet deadlines and work independently.

To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, and writing sample to megan@foodsecurity.org with “Policy Intern Application” in the subject line. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

NOTE: Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the positions are filled.

For more information about CFSC, please visit our website at www.foodsecurity.org."

Data Visualization Student Challenge

Do you have what it takes to apply data visualization for transportation investment or policy decisions? The United States Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) wants to see what you can do! (See more...)

New TRB Research in Progress (RiP) Database

The Transportation Research Board now has a website that lists 6,600+ current as well as recently completed research projects.  According to the TRB website, the database "contains the Research In Progress (RiP) Database and a data-entry system to allow users in State Departments of Transportation, the U.S. Department of Transportation, University Transportation Centers and other US DOT funded universities to add, modify and delete information on their current research projects. The RiP database now contains over 8400 current or recently completed transportation research projects. Most of the RiP records are projects funded by Federal and State Departments of Transportation. University transportation research is also included. The RiP Database now serves as a clearinghouse of University Transportation Centers ongoing research. International research projects from the TRIP file of the International Transport Research Documentation Database are now included in the RiP database. The Transportation Association of Canada supplies records from its Canadian Surface Transportation Research Database for RiP"

Internship Oppty: EPA Environmental Justice (EJ) eco-Ambassador Pgm

Here's an announcement from the Community-Campus Partnerships for Health:

"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing the Environmental Justice (EJ) eco-Ambassador program. Last year Administrator Lisa P. Jackson introduced the EPA eco-Ambassador program with the goal to empower communities to be safer and healthier.  The internship program focuses on environmental justice, one of Administrator Jackson's top priorities.

EPA is looking for energetic and highly motivated graduate level students to work on addressing environmental justice. Numerous opportunities are available within EPA for students to gain valuable work experience while contributing to the mission of protecting human health and the environment.
Student internship opportunities are available at EPA's regional offices nationwide through the EJ eco-Ambassador program.

The goal of the internship program is to:

Provide an opportunity for graduate level students to work collaboratively with EPA offices to support community based programs and increase local community's capacity to address environmental concerns.

Facilitate career development opportunities for graduate level students who have been involved in or have a strong interest in environmental justice.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Graduate students interested in the EJ eco-Ambassador program should apply through to the Student Diversity Internship Program (SDIP) by August 19th,
2011 at http://bit.ly/oZqBz7

Internship placements are within a 50 mile radius of the student's academic institution. In your application please indicate that you are interested in the EJ eco-Ambassador Program.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE EJ ECO-AMBASSADOR PROGRAM:

All U.S. citizens, including residents of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and other U.S. territories may apply

Applicants must be full-time graduate students attending an U.S. accredited institution as recognized by the U.S. Department of Education

Applicants must have a minimum 2.8 on a 4.0 grading scale (B average and above); and

Have previously been involved or have a strong interest in environmental justice , social justice issues and/or environmental health disparities in an academic, volunteer and/ or employment setting

Applicants may be pursuing a degree in: Environmental Health Science, Public Health, Public Policy, Environmental Management, Environmental Law, other areas relating to public service, and environmental concerns.

INTERNSHIPS COMPONENTS:

Stipend and Support: Graduate Stipend ($6,000)

Internship Experience: 10-week part-time experience at EPA Headquarters, Regions and/or Labs.

Professional Development: Student orientation, web-based professional development training, networking through UNCFSP Virtual Network and portal opportunity (internships, scholarships, etc)."

New Report: Transportation and Health Policy Interventions

A new report published by the Partnership for Prevention is available, entitled “Transportation and Health: Policy Interventions for Safer, Healthier People and Communities.”

Here's an excerpt from the report's introduction (p. 1):

"Both the general public and the government have a strong interest in improving health, bringing down health care costs, and reducing energy use and traffic congestion. The report is divided into three chapters to focus on the following policy areas: policies that improve the environment and environmental health (Chapter 1); policies that enhance community design and promote active transportation (Chapter 2); and policies that reduce motor vehicle-related injuries and fatalities (Chapter 3)."

Job Oppty: Sustainable Design Specialist

HOK has an opening for a Sustainable Design Specialist.  Learn more at http://www.hok.com/careers/. 

Job Description

Essential Responsibilities:

- LEED Project Administration

- Sustainable Project Marketing Support

- Sustainable Consulting Participation and Management

- Conduct Sustainability Charrette

- Sustainable Design Analysis

- Compliance Reporting

Other Responsibilities:

- Proposal Preparation

- Interview Participation

- Meeting Facilitation

- Client training and capacity building

- Policy writing & implementation

-- Federal Sustainability Reporting

- Conceptual energy modeling and analysis

- Daylight and views strategy and assessment

Qualifications

Education:

- Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Engineering or Construction strongly preferred

- Minimum 2-5 years’ experience

- LEED Professional Accreditation required (Legacy AP, Green Associate, BD+C, ID+C, O+M)

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities:

- Thorough knowledge of sustainability, integrated design and LEED guidelines.

Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. 

Ability to prioritize oneself in order to meet deadlines and provide high quality service to clients.

Ability to work in team environment.

Proficiency required in the following computer skills: 

o MS Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook

o  Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign

- Proficiency preferred in technical documentation and analysis software:

o  AutoCAD/Architectural Desktop

o  Revit

o  Sketch-Up

o  Design Analysis Software: Ecotect, Radiance, Vasari

o  Energy Analysis Software: eQuest, EnergyPlus, IES

MURP Student Swetha Kumar is Named VT Grad School August 2011 Featured Grad Student

Please join UAP in congratulating MURP student Swetha Kumar for being named the VT Graduate School's August 2011 Featured Graduate Student.  Read more about Swetha's research interests and experiences at this link.

Job Oppty: MCNPPC Environmental Planner

The Environmental Planning Section at MNCPPC is recruiting a Planner position for its Environmental Planning Section.  See this link for the job description posted on the M-NCPPC jobs website.  Experience using GIS and also PC based planning/mapping programs is desired.

Job Oppty: Transportation Planning at MWCOG

The Department of Transportation Planning at the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments is seeking a Planner II or III for the Program Coordination Team . (Job Code DTP 1119) The Program Coordination Team supports the National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board (TPB), the metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for the Washington, D.C. region. The successful candidate will perform professional level planning activities on a wide range of activities, such as working with state and local transportation agencies to develop the Financially Constrained Long-Range Transportation Plan (CLRP) and the six-year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Activities could include:

(1)          Support the analysis and development of user-friendly information to describe the Financially Constrained Long Range Transportation Plan (CLRP) and Regional Priorities Plan;

(2)        Provide staff support to TPB Committees, such as the Access for All Advisory Committee, which advises the TPB on transportation issues important to low-income communities, minority communities and persons with disabilities, and assist with public outreach activities;

 (3)         Assist with maintaining and updating the CLRP/TIP Database which could include data quality checking, data analysis, and assisting with the processing of TIP amendments and adjustments; aand

(4)        Provide support for the Department of Transportation Planning website (www.mwcog.org/transportation, the CLRP website ( www.mwcog.org/clrp) and related websites

For more information: http://www.mwcog.org/resources/opportunities/detail.asp?JOB_ID=291

Sept 17: CSG Walking Tour on Branch Ave. Metro's Potential, Navy Yard Metro's Lessons

Sponsored by The Coalition for Smarter Growth

 

Branch Ave. Metro's Potential, Navy Yard Metro's Lessons

Walking Tour from Branch Ave. Metro and Navy Yard Metro
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Meeting location TBD - near Branch Avenue Metro station.
10:00am - 12:00noon
RSVPs required
RSVP at http://csg.citizen-networks.org/site/Calendar?id=101101&view=Detail&scid=1022

This tour will explore the potential for development around Branch Avenue Metro station in Prince George's County. We'll begin with a briefing at the Tribeca building, then walk through the land around the station and point out specific opportunities to transform this area into mixed-use and vibrant area. From there, we'll take the Metro to the Navy Yard station in DC, an area that has recently experienced extensive redevelopment. 

The Capitol Riverfront Business Improvement District will lead our discussion on the challenges Navy Yard faced and lessons learned during the process of turning this once underutilized area into a vibrant community. This case study will directly relate to the opportunities and challenges facing Branch Avenue

Job Oppty: BikeArlington Seeking Events and Outreach Coordinator

"The position will lead the face to face outreach of BikeArlington. This includes delivering presentations on the general benefits of biking, BikeArlington programs and activities, safe cycling tips and how to incorporate biking into everyday life.

The ideal candidate is outgoing, confident, enthusiastic, believes passionately in the benefits of biking, and is comfortable delivering the message in a wide variety of settings. Examples of groups that the outreach position will address are employee groups, neighborhood associations, and youth programs.

Event planning and coordination is also an aspect of the position, including participation in existing events and the creation of new events. Some examples are organizing and leading group bike rides and participation in health and transportation fairs.

A flexible schedule and the ability to attend evening and weekend events is required.

The candidate should also have a desire to work in a team setting supporting a wide variety of ACCS activities."

Learn more at http://www.bikearlington.com/pages/news-events/bikearlington-seeking-events-and-outreach-coordinator/

Internship at American Planning Association (APA)

Internship at American Planning Association (APA)

The American Planning Association (APA) has an opening for an intern position at its national headquarters in Washington, DC.

The American Planning Association is an independent, not-for-profit, educational organization that provides leadership in the development of vital communities by advocating excellence in community planning, promoting education and citizen empowerment, and providing the tools and support necessary to meet the challenges of growth and change.

The intern will work primarily on the preparation of AICP Exam Results Reports for accredited planning programs. AICP is APA’s professional institute, the American Institute of Certified Planners. The AICP Exam is a critical step in the certification of individuals who satisfy APA’s educational and employment criteria for professional planners (http://www.planning.org/certification/index.htm).

Tasks will include: preparing descriptive statistics of data sets (e.g. mean, median, mode); preparing histograms and other charts for presentation; brainstorming meaningful ways to present complex data to individuals. Other duties may include assisting staff on other APA programs and initiatives as needed.

APA seeks graduate-level candidates who have an interest in community planning and engagement. Applicants must possess excellent quantitative analysis skills, solid research and organization skills, writing and verbal skills, a keen eye for detail, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and an eagerness to learn. Sufficient computer skills in MS Word, Excel, Power Point, and Outlook are a must.

This is an unpaid internship. Hours are flexible, between 14 and 21 hours per week (2 or 3 days a week). Start date immediately and continue through mid-October.

How to Apply:

Please send a resume, cover letter, and short (1-3 pages) writing sample via email to jmacdonald@planning.org with “Internship” in the subject line.  Deadline to apply: August 10, 2011.  Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

Monica Groh

Director of Certification and AICP Member Programs

American Planning Association

mgroh@planning.org

p: 202-349-1027

You're Invited: FREE Lunchtime Workshop on Thurs, Aug 4 - Alexandria Quality of Life Initiative

Join us on Thursday, August 4 for our third lunchtime program.  This month’s topic is GIS and data visualization.  Lunch is provided and there is no charge to attend.  Seats are limited.  Read on for details about the workshop and how to rsvp!

Alexandria Quality of Life Initiative

Lunchtime Workshop Series

Cosponsored by

ACT for Alexandria ■ City of Alexandria ■ Partnership for a Healthier Alexandria

■ Virginia Tech Center for Public Administration and Policy

The Alexandria Quality of Life (AQOL) Lunchtime Workshop Series bring people together around the key questions and challenges involved in further enhancing our great community.  How do we measure Alexandria’s Quality of Life?  How can agencies, nonprofits, businesses and community groups use this data to make our community an even better place to live, work and play?

In a conversational setting, we’ll discuss best practices and key insights about using community indicators to make meaningful community change, including ‘lessons learned’ from colleagues and peers.

Join us for a stimulating discussion!  The workshops are free and open to the public; FREE LUNCH* is provided for the July program courtesy of Virginia Tech.  For more information, contact Beth Offenbacker, Ph.D., Virginia Tech Center for Public Administration and Policy at boffen@vt.edu or 703 623 4811. *Funding provided by Virginia Tech’s Institute for Society, Culture and Environment (ISCE)

Data Visualization: Using GIS Tools to Create Meaning and Guide Change

Thursday, August 4, 2011

Noon -1pm

The AQOLI project focuses on using a range of data sources to support informed decision making and action by public, private, nonprofit and community groups in Alexandria.  But sometimes the use of data can be overwhelming in understanding its meaning.  Many indicators projects around the country use data visualization tools – like GIS systems (Geographic Information Systems) – to make it easier to view and interpret complex community data. Join us on August 4 for an exciting discussion about the role of visualization in creating meaning and guiding community change.  Among the subjects we’ll explore include: -         What is GIS and how it is being used today in the City for visualizing data -         The applicability of GIS to data analysis -         Participatory GIS: an example of how to use GIS in conjunction with stakeholders to collect and display data -         The value of GIS data visualization for analyzing short- and long-term data trends Speakers include: □       Steven Chozick, GIS Division Chief, Department of Planning and Zoning, City of Alexandria □       Seth Peery, Senior GIS Architect/Enterprise GIS, Virginia Tech Geospatial Information Sciences

NOTE NEW LOCATION THIS MONTH:  Virginia Tech's Center for Public Administration and Policy, 1021 Prince Street, Alexandria, Va. 22314

Street parking nearby and also accessible via Alexandria’s DASH bus service

No charge to attend.  Seating is limited; please RSVP by Wednesday, August 3 at http://tinyurl.com/43o282r