Smart Growth America is now accepting applications for its 2013 free technical assistance workshops, including LEED-ND Scorecard Charrettes to be conducted by SGA and Criterion Planners. Using the sustainability lens of LEED-ND, communities may benchmark existing neighborhoods, evaluate sub-area plans or development proposals, or conceptualize eco-districts, for areas up to a maximum of 500 acres. A cross-section of stakeholders will be encouraged to participate in the one-day workshops, particularly local staff who can replicate the process on additional areas. Participants will receive: a catalog of LEED-ND measures in a local government framework, a method for identifying lands eligible for LEED-ND's location prerequisites, a model ordinance for accelerating LEED-ND projects, and a checklist for rapid audits of community alignment with LEED-ND standards.

Any unit of local government, Indian tribe, or regional government is eligible to apply for this assistance, which is funded by US EPA. The deadline for applications is October 25, 2012 at 5:00 PM EDT. Applications may be submitted at www.smartgrowthamerica.org/technical-assistance/free-assistance-2012-ap…. Questions should be directed to [email protected] or [email protected].