Greater Philadelphia encompasses a wide range of community types—from urban centers and suburban neighborhoods to rural areas and agricultural lands—each contributing to the region’s overall vitality. To help these places strengthen and leverage existing assets for economic growth and reinvestment, DVRPC serves as a resource for research-driven technical assistance and a variety of funding opportunities.
The region’s long-range plan links land use, transportation, and economic development planning, and identifies distinct communities, known as Centers, across the region that are considered appropriate places for future growth, development, and investment. Characteristics commonly found in the region’s Centers enable them to adapt to change, prioritize reinvestment, and succeed over the long term.
Strengthening Places for Long-Term Success
Communities are better able to withstand periods of change and disruption, and plan for the future when they share certain qualities, including a:
- Broad base of economic activity
- Reliable access to transit
- Robust walking and biking networks
- Varied housing options
- Unique local character
- Strong sense of community
- Connection to open space and natural environments
Achieving these qualities requires coordinated planning and sustained local investment. Since 2002, DVRPC has invested nearly $24 million in local planning efforts through its Transportation and Community Development Initiative (TCDI). The TCDI program funds projects that link land use, transportation, and economic development planning, and helps communities catalyze revitalization and lay the groundwork for long-term success.
Request Assistance
DVRPC staff are available to help identify community revitalization opportunities at the local level. The Municipal Help Desk can connect municipalities with the appropriate staff and resources to support these efforts.