Iowa’s Living Roadways Community Visioning Program is accepting applications for the 2027 program. Eligible communities are those with populations of fewer than 10,000 residents, existing transportation-related issues and a committee of volunteers willing to dedicate time and talent to the visioning process. Only communities located within one mile of a state or federal highway will be selected.

The visioning program integrates technical landscape planning and design techniques with sustainable community action to empower local leaders through a planning process that results in an enhancement plan reflecting the values and identity of the community.

Public participation is key to identifying the needs and desires of a community. Community Visioning Program staff engage residents using a variety of methods to ensure a more inclusive public process.

Community installations give residents flexibility to view design proposals and provide feedback when it is convenient for them, while also bringing attention to potential project sites. Each community has its own page on the Community Visioning website, where residents can access meeting information, design proposals and final products. The program engages the public on a variety of social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Communities selected to participate are required to contribute $2,000, either cash or in-kind, toward program implementation. In return, the visioning program provides professional services valued at more than $100,000.

Communities interested in applying to the 2027 Community Visioning Program can apply online at: www.communityvisioning.org/apply/. Communities that would like assistance with the application process should contact: Sandra Oberbroeckling, 515-294-3721, soberbr@iastate.edu or Brad Riphagen, 515-370-1291, briphagen@treesforever.org.

Applications must be submitted by Sept. 1. Selections will be announced at the end of September.