EPA program to assist Florida county with clean air, water efforts

Manatee County, Florida, is one of 25 U.S. communities that will receive technical assistance from the Environmental Protection Agency through the Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program.

Manatee County was selected from 76 applicants. The EPA will provide one- and two-day workshops from both EPA staff and national subject matter experts on efforts to improve air quality and water quality and promote economic development.

The assistance tools offered this year include Green and Complete Streets, which will allow the county to create long-term stormwater plans that reduce flooding, feature green space and encourage redevelopment while also ensuring stormwater runoff does not reach Sarasota Bay. The other four assistance tools offered this year are Equitable Development, Planning for Infill Development, Sustainable Strategies for Small Cities and Rural Areas and Flood Resilience for Riverine and Coastal Communities.

“Through our Building Blocks program, local leaders can guide their communities towards a healthier, more vibrant future,” EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy said. “Communities shouldn’t have to choose between protecting the environment and creating economic opportunity.”

The Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program is 5 years old this year and has served 130 communities in 41 states since its inception.