FAQs
About PVPC
What is PVPC and what does it do?
The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) is the designated regional planning agency for the 43 cities and towns of the Pioneer Valley region, located in Hampden and Hampshire Counties. PVPC works to advance regional collaboration and planning across transportation, housing, climate, public health, land use, and economic development.
Which cities and towns are members of PVPC?
All 43 municipalities in Hampden and Hampshire Counties are members of PVPC. View a full list of communities.
How is PVPC funded?
PVPC receives funding through annual assessments from its member communities, as well as from federal and state grants, service fees for grant administration, and local matching funds.
Is PVPC part of the state or federal government?
No. PVPC is a public sector entity formed by local governments under state law, but it operates independently from both state and federal governments.
How can my community benefit from PVPC’s services?
PVPC provides technical assistance, grant support, planning expertise, data analysis, and regional coordination to help local governments and organizations solve shared challenges and improve quality of life across the region.
Regional Planning & Programs
What is regional planning and why is it important?
Regional planning addresses issues that extend beyond municipal borders – such as housing, transportation, climate resilience, and economic growth – ensuring communities can coordinate efforts, share resources, and achieve stronger outcomes.
How does PVPC support sustainability and climate resilience?
PVPC helps communities prepare Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) plans, identify climate risks, improve infrastructure resilience, and apply for state and federal climate funding.
What is the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP)?
The RTP is a long-range plan that guides major transportation investments in the Pioneer Valley. It outlines priorities for highways, transit, biking, and walking and is updated every four years.
What is the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)?
CEDS is a regional roadmap for economic growth, developed in collaboration with public and private sector partners. It identifies economic priorities, goals, and strategies to boost equity and resilience in the region.
Community Development & Housing
What is the Housing Rehabilitation Program?
PVPC administers a Housing Rehabilitation Program that provides financial assistance to low- and moderate-income homeowners to make critical health, safety, and code-related repairs.
Am I eligible for home repair assistance through PVPC?
Eligibility depends on your income, where you live, and the nature of the repairs. PVPC works with participating communities to administer these programs. Visit PVPC Housing Rehabilitation Program page for more details.
What is the Aging in Place initiative?
Aging in Place helps seniors make safety and accessibility improvements to their homes so they can remain independent longer. This may include updates like grab bars, ramps, or bathroom modifications.
Are PVPC programs for homeowners or renters?
Most housing rehab programs are for homeowners, but PVPC also supports community development efforts that can benefit renters and improve housing conditions region-wide.
How do I apply for funding or support through PVPC?
Each program has its own application process. For housing programs, visit the Housing Rehabilitation page or call 413-781-6045 to speak with a staff member.
Transportation Planning
What is the Pioneer Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)?
The MPO is a decision-making body that prioritizes transportation projects in the region. PVPC supports the MPO by conducting planning, public outreach, and project evaluation.
How are transportation projects selected and funded?
Projects are proposed by local communities and reviewed for eligibility and impact. Selected projects are included in the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and may receive state or federal funding.
How can I provide input on transportation improvements in my area?
PVPC regularly hosts public meetings and open comment periods on transportation planning. You can sign up for updates or submit feedback at pvpc.org.
What is the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)?
The TIP is a short-term (four-year) plan that lists transportation projects receiving federal funds. It’s updated annually and includes roads, transit, pedestrian, and bike improvements.
Data & Mapping
Does PVPC provide data or GIS mapping services?
Yes. PVPC offers geographic information system (GIS) services, including maps, data analysis, and custom visualizations to support local and regional planning.
Where can I find demographic or land use data for my city or town?
PVPC provides regional and community-specific data on population, housing, transportation, environment, and more. Visit the Data & Maps section on pvpc.org.
How can I request custom maps or technical assistance?
Contact PVPC’s GIS or planning staff at 413-781-6045 or through the Contact Us page to discuss your project needs.
Public Engagement & Meetings
How can I attend a PVPC meeting or event?
Most meetings are open to the public and are listed on the Events or Calendar page of PVPC’s website. Virtual options are often available.
Where can I view agendas, meeting minutes, and reports?
Agendas, meeting minutes, reports, and presentations are archived at pvpc.org in our document library. View our latest Meetings Minutes & Public Records page.
How does PVPC engage the public in planning processes?
PVPC uses community meetings, surveys, focus groups, and digital tools to ensure broad input on planning initiatives. Public feedback is essential to shaping regional priorities.
Grants & Technical Assistance
What grant writing or administration services does PVPC offer?
PVPC helps municipalities apply for and manage funding from the state and federal governments, including Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), climate resilience grants, and more.
How does PVPC assist towns with federal and state grants?
PVPC supports towns with identifying funding sources, writing applications, developing budgets, and ensuring compliance with program requirements.
What are Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) and how can they be used?
CDBG funds are federal grants used to improve housing, public infrastructure, and services for low- and moderate-income residents. PVPC helps communities apply for and manage these grants.
Getting Involved
How can I get involved with PVPC’s work?
Attend public meetings, respond to surveys, sign up for newsletters, or join a working group. Input from residents and partners helps shape regional planning efforts.
Are there volunteer or internship opportunities?
PVPC offers occasional internship opportunities for students and emerging professionals in planning, GIS, or public administration. Check the Jobs & Internships page for current openings.
Who do I contact to collaborate on a project or request a presentation?
Reach out through our Contact Us page or call 413-781-6045. Our staff are happy to discuss ways to support your organization or initiative.