Committees
About Committees
The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) operates through a network of dedicated committees that guide our work across key regional priorities. These committees bring together municipal leaders, subject matter experts, and community stakeholders to collaborate on issues such as transportation, housing, environmental sustainability, stormwater management, public health, and economic development. Each committee plays a critical role in shaping regional plans, advising on policy, ensuring accountability, and advancing initiatives that reflect the shared needs and goals of the 43 cities and towns we serve. Together, they help PVPC stay responsive, equitable, and forward-thinking in building a stronger Pioneer Valley.
Our Committees
The Full Commission includes representatives – usually planning board members or other municipal officials – from each of PVPC’s 43 member municipalities. It meets four to six times annually to vote on regional planning strategies, set organizational priorities, and approve budgets. This is PVPC’s governing body and highest decision-making authority.
Elected annually by the Full Commission, the nine-member Executive Committee meets monthly to oversee PVPC’s day-to-day operations. It handles key administrative tasks such as budget approvals, financial oversight, and personnel decisions. Officers include a Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary/Clerk, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer, and several At-Large Members.
The JTC is PVPC’s transportation advisory group, made up of municipal representatives, regional transit authorities, and transportation stakeholders. It guides transportation planning decisions, helps develop the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), and advises the Pioneer Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO).
This committee focuses on managing stormwater runoff and protecting water quality within the Connecticut River watershed. It brings together local officials and environmental professionals to support compliance with stormwater regulations and improve regional coordination around clean water infrastructure.
This committee works to safeguard the Barnes Aquifer, a key drinking water source in the region. It promotes sustainable land use practices, monitors water quality, and supports public education on aquifer protection.
A group dedicated to improving non-motorized transportation infrastructure. The committee focuses on planning safer, more accessible networks for walking and biking throughout the Pioneer Valley, and supports local efforts to expand trails, greenways, and complete streets.
The CMP Committee tracks traffic congestion patterns and helps develop solutions to improve traffic flow and reduce delays. It also evaluates the effectiveness of completed projects and informs long-range transportation planning efforts.
This committee addresses current and future needs related to passenger and freight rail services in the region. It supports efforts to expand access, improve safety, and integrate rail into the broader regional transportation system.
Focused on public transit services, this committee provides input from riders, operators, and municipalities to improve bus, van, and other transit options. It helps ensure that regional transit systems are equitable, efficient, and responsive to community needs.
Responsible for identifying and recommending candidates for leadership positions within PVPC, including officers and Executive Committee members. This subcommittee ensures a transparent and inclusive nomination process.
Oversees internal administrative matters, including budget planning, personnel policies, and organizational operations. It supports the Executive Committee by preparing recommendations on operational decisions.
Reviews and scores transportation projects submitted for inclusion in the Transportation Improvement Program. It evaluates project readiness, funding eligibility, and alignment with regional priorities.
Focuses on advancing non-motorized transportation initiatives, including bike lanes, pedestrian safety, and complete streets planning. It operates in coordination with the Joint Transportation Committee.