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SDAT Communities
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http://www.aia.org/liv sdat cities
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SDAT Communities
The Sustainable Design Assessment Team (SDAT) 111 l n!l!'m brings together multldi
professionals from across the country to provide a road map for communities seeki
community's ability to meet the needs of today without reducing the ability of futul
After submitting an application outlining the economic, environmental, and social e
following cities were selected to be a part of the AlA SDAT program:
2006 SDA T Communities:
Community
Hagerstown, MD
Lawrence, KS
Northeast Michigan
Syracuse, NY
Guemes Island, WA
Longview, WA
New Orleans, LA
Northern Nevada
2005 SDA T Communities:
Community
Cache Vailey, UT
Forest City, NC
Pittsfield, MA
Northampton, MA
Oklahoma City, OK
Alexandria Township, NJ
Application Download
HagerstQwn_A-p-p_"
LawrencemApp.
Northeast Michiaan ADD.
Syracuse App-,
Guemes Island App.
LQOgyiew App.
New Orleans ADD.
I'JQrthern Nev"d""'J)jJ~
Application Download
Cache Valley App.
Forest Citv ADD.
Pittsfield !\IlP.
Northampton App.
Oklahoma City App.
AJJ;,:l(~~ndrja Townshio ADD.
powerPoint Presentatiol
Lon9yieW PQwerPoint
PowerPoint PresentatiOI
Cache ValLeypowerPolnt
forest Citv PowerPoint
Pjttsfield PQwerPoint
NorthamPton PowerPQint
Oklahoma City PowerPoint
l%.lexaru;lria TownshiD Po we
To learn more about this program, please send an e-mail to sdat@aia.org.
> Download the SDAT Information Packet!
8/2/2006
SDA T Communities
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SUSTAINABLE DESIGN ASSESSMENT TEAM (SDAT) PROGRAM
The SDAT program is an interdisciplinary community assistance program that focuses on principles of
sustainability_bnnging multidisciplinary teams of professionals to work with community decision-
makers and stakeholders to help them develop a vision and framework for a sustainable future.
Backeround ofthe SDAT
The SDAT program focuses on the importance of developing sustainable communities through design.
It is modeled on the AlA's R/UDAT (Regional and Urban Design Assistance Team) program, one of the
AlA's longest-running success stories. While the R/UDAT program was developed to provide
communities with specific design solutions, the SDAT program provides broad assessments to help
frame future policies or design solutions in the context of sustainability and help communities plan the
firs steps of implementation.
In 2005, the following communities participated in the SDAT program:
. Oklahoma City, OK
. Pittsfield, MA
. Northampton, MA
. Cache Valley, UT
. Forest City, NC
. Alexandria Township, NJ.
SDAT Princioles and Values
The SDAT program is based on an understanding of design as a process that:
. is integrative, holistic, and visual
. is central to achieving a sustainable relationship among humans, the natural environment,
and the place
. gives three-dimensional form to a culture and a place
. achieves balance among culture, environment, and economic systems.
The SDAT program upholds the AlA design assistance team values of:
. a multidisciplinary approach
. objectivity of all participating team members
. use of public processes.
SDAT Results
Many communities want to become more sustainable but are immobilized by conflicting agendas,
politics, personalities, or even the overabundance of opportunity. Further, many communities have not
yet taken stock of their current practices and policies within a sustainability framework; others have
identified issues of concern but desire assistance in laying out a plan of action to increase
sustainability. The SDAT process ensures that alternative solutions are given a fair hearing and that
options are weighed impartially.
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The SDAT process will:
. inform the community of opportunities and encourage them to take action to protect local and
regional resources
. help the community understand the structure of the place at various scales and contexts-from
regional resources to the neighborhood scale
. explore and articulate the larger contexts and interactions of ecological, sociological, economic,
and physical systems
. visualize potential futures
. recognize and describe the qualities of a place by preserving the best elements of the past,
addressing the needs of the present, and planning for the needs of future generations
. identify and describe choices and consequences
. connect plans and actions
. advance the principles of quality sustainable communities
. help the community define the roles of various stakeholders
. develop a road map for the implementation of more sustainable policies and practices.
SDAT ParticiDants
The'ley to SDAT success is diversity and participation; the process involves multiple disciplines and
multiple stakeholders. The SDAT process includes not only the national team but also government
agencies and officials, private businesses, schools and students, community members, and other parties
as appropriate.
AlA Center for Communities by Design and Other Partners-The AlA Center for Communities by
Design manages and staffs the program. The AlA also partners with other organizations (such as the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the
American Society of Landscape Architects, and the American Planning Association) as appropriate.
SDAT Application Review Panel-The Application Review Panel includes leaders from the AlA Center
for Communities by Design, a representative from the AlA Committee on the Environment (COTE), a
public representative (current or former elected official), and other representatives as appropriate.
Team Members-SDATs bring a team of highly respected professionals to work with community
decision-makers to help them develop a vision and framework for a sustainable future. 1'1!I8B members
are selected based on their experience with the specific issues facing the community. These experts are
from across the United States and volunteer their time to be a member of the SDAT. To further ensure
volunteer objectivity, team members agree to refrain from taking work for three years from the date of
completion of the SDAT.
The lack of bias, the professional stature of the team members, and the pro bono nature of the team's
work generates community respect and enthusiasm for the SDAT process. This process encourages the
participation of stakeholders in the community. The passion and creativity that are generated by a
top-notch multidisciplinary team of professionals working collaboratively can produce extraordinary
results.
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For each SDAT project, a team is assembled based on the project's unique issues. A typical team
consists of a team leader and five to seven team members (depending on the scope and type of project).
An AlA staff person is also assigned to each SDAT.
Local Steering Committee- T~$teering committee is the key local organizing group for an SDAT
project. It is responsible for assembling local and regional information, organizing the preliminary
meeting and SDAT visit, and generating local media coverage during the entire project.
SDAT Proiect Phases
1. Preliminary Visit
Once the communities have been selected, the AlA Center for Communities by Design commences
discussions with the local steering committee. The SDAT leader is selected and then a preliminary visit
to the community occurs that includes the team leader and a staff member (an additional team member
may attend in some instances). The meeting is typically conducted over a day and a half well in
advance of the SDAT visit.
2. Preparations for the SDAT Visit
After the AlA forms the national team, a local technical committee is formed and sends background
information to the national SDAT team in preparation for the team visit. The information provided to
the national team should include local as well as regional overviews about topography, geology,
hydrology, codes, climate, maps, neighborhood types/stability, demographics, economic factors, and
other relevant subjects. This information is sent well in advance ofthe SDAT visit. In addition, the
steering committee is responsible for organizing the public participation for the visit and including
multiple perspectives from the community. The local steering committee also plays an active role in
generating media coverage.
3. SDAT Visit
1'heSDAT visit spans three days and is held in a facility that contributes to an open process and
discussion. Scheduling of the visit depends on the availability of team members and other SDAT
projects. During the visit, the SDAT team tours the project area, reviews additional materials, and
interviews stakeholders and the public. Based on the information collected, the team develops
recommendations on how the community can become more sustainable. The visit includes time to
interact with participants as well as dedicated work time for the team.
On the last of day of the visit, the team will present their recommendations to the steering committee
and residents. The presentation will include observations on challenges and strengths, as well as
recommendations and a basic action plan. The recommendations will have an audit or assessment
focus. The SDAT will also, where possible, tie their sustainability recommendations into existing local
government regulations and policies so as to contribute to a comprehensive approach. The final report
(approximately 15 to 20 pages) will be submitted to the steering committee within 45 to 60 days of the
SDAT visit.
4. Follow-Up Conference Call
Six months after the delivery of the final report, the steering committee and team will undertake a
conference call. The purpose of the call is to review the project's progress and address issues. Prior to
the conference call, the team leader and AlA staff will be available to answer questions.
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5. One-Year Assessment
One year after the SDAT visit, selected members of the team will revisit the community to undertake
an assessment. Typically it is a one-day roundtable event that includes the steering committee, SDAT
representatives, and local groups and advocates. Questions will be addressed, the project's progress will
be reviewed, and recommendations will be updated if needed.
SDAT Aoolication and Review Process
Interested communities that would like to apply to be an SDAT project are required to complete the
Self-Assessment Checklist and submit an application using the Application Guidelines. Applications
are to be returned to the AlA Center for Communities by Design.
AlA local components and their committees should be involved in the organizational and
self-assessment effort and help coordinate with local universities and other organizations. Ideally, local
components will lead the assembly of a steering committee for the effort. In any event, the local or
state AlA components must indicate their support in order for an application to receive a favorable
revIew.
The Application Review Panel will analyze communities according to:
. types of problems to be addressed, range of issues
. local commitment and support-public and private sectors
. political will to address issues of sustainability
. local matching funds and logistical support
. self-evaluation/assessment regarding issues and opportunities
. timing (in the decision-making process).
The review panel will review the 2006 SDAT applications in early January 2006. The AlA Center for
Communities by Design may contact applicants with follow-up questions or conduct a site visit if
necessary. Final decision on acceptance/denial of each community's proposal for the 2006 applications
will occur by February 13, 2006, at which point we will begin to notify and begin work with the
selected localities. The AlA will award seven SDATs in 2006.
* Applications for 2006 SDATs must be received at the AlA by II :59 p.m. on January 6, 2006.
Costs of the Pro!!ram
In 2006, each project will cost approximately $20,000 to $30,000. The AlA will provide $15,000 in
grant funds and the participating community will be expected to provide a monetary match of
$5,000. Funds may be raised from public and private sources that might include businesses, local
government, nonprofits, foundations, organizations such as the chamber of commerce, arts councils,
the local AlA component, and other groups and individuals.
More Information
For more information about the SDAT program, visit www.aia.org/liv_sdat or contact Ann
Livingston, Esq., director of the Center for Communities by Design, alivingston@aia.org or 202-626-
7405.
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SELF-ASSESSMENT CHECKLIST
This checklist is intended to help your community determine its potential for benefiting from a
successful SDAT process.
Mission
. What is the specific mission you wish to achieve through the SDAT process?
. Is the scope of the mission appropriate?
. Does it address the critical issues and concerns facing your community in the context of
sustainability?
. Based upon what you know about your community and the SDAT process, why do you believe
the SDAT process will help you achieve your mission?
Think about the overlapping realms of environmental, social, and economic issues and consider how
the following topics relate to one another and to the project mission. (SDATs will expect to consider at
least two topics in each of the three areas when developing the final scope of the SDAT-solving interre-
lated problems is often more effective than looking at issues as isolated problems.)
Environmental
Air quality
Water quality/quantity
Open spaces
Wildlife habitatlwetlands
Flooding and drought
Natural disaster
Transit and land use
Energy efficiency
Flooding and drought
Social
Housing/affordability
Public spaces
Ethnic/racial issues
Demographic/income shifts
Education
Sense of community/place
Pcdestrianlbicyc1e options
Access to jobs/housing
Managing growth
Economic
Revitalization
Diversity
Jobs
Public services
Public policy/planning
Agricultural preservation
Traffic congestion
Examples of Types ofIssues an SDAT might address
Cache Vallev. Utah: Vallev on the Verze
This community is facing extreme development pressure along its South Valley Corridor. Its location
adjacent to a primary transportation route, the scenic and aesthetic qualities of the area, and its close
proximity to city services and amenities have proven attractive to both commercial and residential
developments. This rapid and piecemeal expansion is threatening the integrity of the built and natural
environments of the area; air and water pollution are major issues and agricultural lands are under
development pressure. The community recognizes the need for a policy document that would promote
sustainable development and prevent irreversible damage to the environmental, social, and economic
character of Cache Valley.
Forest Citv. North Carolina: Weavinz Together Community Betterment and Design
This community hopes renovation and conversion of its historic textile mill into a mixed-use develop-
ment project will create momentum to revitalize the city's central core and create a sustainable econo-
my. Residents and leaders are seeking ways to develop and nurture programs and policies that will
enable the city to create the future it envisions. lUo '. kOy\4.e 1)1~'c)-
Pittsfield. Massachusetts: Sustainable Urbanism in the Heart of the Berkshires
This community is looking to create a more diverse economic base that encourages cultural tourism
and strengthens the presence of art and artists in the community. After years of reliance on a single
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national manufacturer that has resulted in water pollution and the impairment of the environmental
integrity of the waterfront, Pittsfield is looking to attract new and diverse residents, encourage tourism
by expanding the city's cultural resources, and diversify employment opportunities in the area. (f1 .le u...W
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Oklahoma City: Industrial Transformation
This community hopes to revitalize the Reno corridor of the city. The area contains heavy industry and
contaminated land. Extensive redevelopment is planned for this area, which acts as a transportation
gateway into downtown Oklahoma City. The Reno corridor possesses a unique set of opportunities as
well as a number of planning and sustainability challenges. The community hopes to develop a road
map for sustainable growth that will allow for the growth of economic opportunity and environmental
quality in the area while preventing unplanned and inappropriate development.
Project Area
. How will you describe the set of issues you hope the SDAT will focus on, as well as the size
and complexity of the geographic area you want to address?
. Is the project area one centralized place or is it several overlapping areas such as a core area
that requires a specific area plan, a municipality, or an even larger area such as a region?
Participant Outline
. Who will be affected by the project outcome?
. Name the key individuals, organizations, institutions, and government agencies that should
participate in the SDAT process and their relationships to the project mission.
. What are the issues or problems each participant group or individual wishes to address, and
what outcome would they like to see that would create a winning situation?
. Which community decision-makers and leaders will help you to implement (or block) strategies
for improving your community?
SWOT Analysis
Think about:
. What are your community's notable strengths that will be important assets as you undergo the
SDAT process and implement the recommendations?
. What are the weaknesses or internal factors that add to or detract from your community's
competitive advantage and environmental and social conditions compared with other similar
communities?
. What are your community's opportunities (such as impending legislation or recent advocacy
efforts) that might affect the success ofthe SDAT?
. What threats (such as external factors that can affect the community's success, e.g., regulations,
economic trends, demographic changes, or natural hazards or disasters) to the process exist?
Community Commitment to the SDAT Process
The purpose of this analysis is to help your community assess its ability to fund, coordinate, and man-
age the SDAT process.
. Do you need to gain the approval for the SDAT process from your governmental body, the
community, or a specific neighborhood?
. Have you identified the resource individuals, organizations or entities that will help to develop
information for and participate in the SDAT process? For example, do you need to assemble
information resources in the areas of environmental conditions, transportation, economics and
market conditions, and political support, among other considerations?
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. Is your schedule (to prepare, conduct, and follow up on the SDAT process) realistic? Can you
commit to the time required to produce a successful SDAT process and product?
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APPLICATION GUIDELINES
Proiect Title
Include the name of the community in a short project title, such as:
Cache Valley, Utah: Valley on the Verge
Forest City, North Carolina: Weaving Together Community Betterment and Design
Pittsfield, Massachusetts: Sustainable Urbanism in the Heart ofthe Berkshires
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: Industrial Transformation
Contact Person(s)
Include the name, address, phone and fax numbers, and e-mail address for the chair(s) of the steering
committee. Naming cochairs of the steering committee is recommended. One of these should be
designated the primary contact.
Community Descriotion
(approximately one to two pages)
Include a brief history, population figures, demographics, economic information, form of government
description, geography/topography data, and anything else you think is pertinent. Be sure to include
information on regional setting (context) and influences. Necessary graphic materials include maps,
study-area site plans, photos (especially aerial views), and diagrammatic maps showing locations and
concentrations of specific community features and needs.
Descrintion of the Issue(s) to be addressed bv the SDAT-Problem Statement
(approximately two to five pages plus maps)
Define and describe the proposed study area. Be as specific as possible about the nature and scope of
the issues you wish to address. Describe why they are critical to your community. Describe how these
issues relate to development concerns at the regional, municipal, and neighborhood scales. Be sure to
include information on the surrounding county if the proposed study area is a municipality.
Identify the barriers (physical, social, economic, political) that have limited the community's ability to
address its concerns or agree on solutions. Include an assessment of your community's most significant
needs (e.g., water supply concerns or public health issues). Tell us about any past attempts that have
failed to resolve community issues. Include as much graphic material as needed to describe existing
conditions.
Obiective of SDAT Process
(approximately 300 words)
State what measurable results you hope the SDAT process will help you achieve and how this process
fits within other community planning and development efforts. Try to avoid repeating the problem
statement
Budl!et and Fundinl! Sources
Your community should be prepared to raise at least $5,000-$15,000 (in 2006, the AlA will provide a
grant of $15,000 to be applied towards the costs of each project and most projects will cost
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approximately $20,000-$30,000). Your community will be responsible for a monetary match of $5,000
and any costs above $20,000.
Identify specific potential donors (and amounts where possible), cash to be raised (and potential
sources), and possible sources of in-kind contributions. All sources do not need to be identified by
name at this time, but you should demonstrate a reasonable sense of funding feasibility.
Timetable for the Team Visit(s)
Identify target dates for the preliminary visit, the team visit, and the follow-up. Include any special
reasoning that may affect the timing of any part of the process (e.g., six months before scheduled
comprehensive plan revision). Bear in mind that there will be a space of time between approval of the
application and the team visit and that the dates may be adjusted based on program needs and
availability ofteam members.
List of Steerine Committee Members
Provide addresses, affiliations, telephone and fax numbers, and e-mail addresses for all steering com-
mittee members. Be sure that your steering committee represents all of your community, not just a few
select groups. Both public and private sectors should be well represented. Also, show how you will
organize into subcommittees to plan and implement the SDAT.
Student Resources
Provide the name(s) of participating architecture, urban design, landscape architecture, or
environmental studies schools and faculty contacts (name, address, phone fax numbers, e-mail
address). Include a letter of commitment from the school(s).The faculty member(s) should be consulted
and agree to coordinate student participation during the team visit, if a school is participating.
(Educators may want to use the SDAT as a part of a studio or class project.)
Media Plan
Include an outline of your media plan with a list of local media outlets and contacts.
Attachments
At a minimum, include as many letters of support as possible from community leaders, neighborhood
groups, churches, businesses and institutions, the mayor or town manager, public agencies, and the
local AlA component; maps and study area site plans; and photos, especially aerial views.
Diagrammatic maps showing, for example, locations and concentrations of specific community needs
can also be helpful. Feel free to include other materials that will describe your community, such as
newspaper articles covering key issues, tourism materials, and brochures from the chamber of
commerce or local economic development agency. These materials will help the review team
understand your community and the issues that need to be addressed.
Six complete hard copies of the application and a CD containing a PDF of the application should
be sent to:
SDAT Program Director, Center for Communities by Design
The American Institute of Architects
1735 New York Avenue NW
Washington, D.C. 20006-5292
Questions about the applicatiou should be directed to:
Ann Livingston, Esq., Director, Center for Communities by Design
202-626-7405 tel
202-626-7527 fax
C alivingston@aia.org e-mail
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