Montco 2040 Themes and Goals

The Montgomery County Planning Commission would like your feedback on the themes and goals it is proposing for Montco 2040.  Please let us know if we're on the right track by letting us know below...and give us your comments if you think these themes and goals need some revisions.  There's no need to comment on the themes and goals with which you agree, so feel free to skip to what's relevant to you.  If you have any questions about the content below, please contact Anne Leavitt-Gruberger at aleavitt@montcopa.org or 610-278-3727.

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* The first theme is Connected Communities.  People want to be connected and part of a broader community.  A key role for the county is to help these connections occur beyond local municipal boundaries.  Connected communities involve collaboration among stakeholders, improved transportation choices, connected trails and greenways, and strong downtowns and destinations.  Do you think this is an appropriate theme for Montco 2040?

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* The first Connected Communities goal is to "Encourage collaboration and partnerships among governments, businesses, institutions and other stakeholders."  This goal will help foster local cooperation among our 62 municipalities and 23 school districts, promote public-private partnerships where funding is limited and issues complex, and highlight the county's inextricable link to Philadelphia and its other neighboring counties.  Is this an appropriate goal for the plan and Montgomery County?

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* The second Connected Communities goal is to "Improve transportation options and quality for county residents and workers."  This goal is important to give people options other than cars to get to work (and give those who already do this more options and better service), as well as give the 83% of county residents who live in less walkable areas of the county the ability to walk safely in their communities.  Is this an appropriate goal for the plan and Montgomery County?

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* The third Connected Communities goal is to "Expand and connect county trails, local trails, greenways, natural areas, and parks."  This goal is important because trails meet recreational and transportation needs, as well as improve personal health and the local economy.  Yet two-thirds of the county's trail network is incomplete.  Additionally, greenways protect and link the county's sensitive natural areas and provide wildlife corridors.  Is this an appropriate goal for the plan and Montgomery County?

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* The fourth Connected Communities goal is to "Support strong downtowns and community destinations, including mixed use areas, arts and culture focal points, libraries, and other gathering places."  This goal is important because county residents want more physical, civic and social connections.  Vital downtowns and mixed use areas, as well as the county's hidden arts and culture gems, can foster this - as well as raise property values.  Is this an appropriate goal for the plan and Montgomery County?

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