Reading-Berks Association of REALTORS® and the Berks County Smart Growth Alliance present Compact Development Program
Utilizing a National Association of REALTORS® Smart Growth grant obtained by the Reading-Berks Association of REALTORS® (R-BAR), the Berks County Smart Growth Alliance presented a Compact Development program on February 7, 2008 at the Reading Country Club. Compact Development works to preserve open space, increase economic vitality, provide different housing options, environmentally friendly communities, support transit, and ensure a healthier lifestyle by driving less, and walking more.
A variety of representatives from many different civic organizations and municipal boards were in attendance. They ranged from local governing board members, mayors, planning commissioners, municipal managers and secretaries, solicitors, zoning officials, zoning hearing board members, and school board members.
The program aired several myths surrounding Compact Development and countered them with demonstrated facts, from actual communities, that highlighted the positive results of such efforts. A panel of municipal and private representatives provided their perspectives on the topic. Included on the panel was R-BAR Past President Fred Levering in his role on Wyomissing Borough’s Council. The presenter and panel detailed the benefits for utilizing Compact Development and the importance for its use in rapidly growing Berks County.
At the conclusion of the informative event, the audience repeatedly mentioned their appreciation of the knowledge they obtained. R-BAR was proud to be the sponsor of this program and looks to continue positioning itself with the Berks County Smart Growth Alliance to ensure that Berks County “grows smart” To learn more about this program and future programs, visit the websites of R-BAR (http://www.realestateinberks.com/) and the Berks County Smart Growth Alliance (http://www.co.berks.pa.us/sga/site/default.asp).
The Reading-Berks Association of REALTORS® (R-BAR) is a 1,100 member organization that serves as the “voice for real estate” in Berks County. It is located at 2201 Ridgewood Road, Suite 350, Wyomissing, Pennsylvania.