Better Development

The thinking behind much of our work is well summarized in the following Six Principles for Better Development elaborated in our joint publication with The Conservation Fund: Better Models for Development in the Shenandoah Valley.

1. Conserve Natural and Scenic Assets
2. Maintain a Clear Edge Between Town and Countryside
3. Build Livable Communities
4. Preserve Historic Resources
5. Respect Local Character in New Construction
6. Reduce the Impact of the Car

Learn more about how to put these principles into practice. VCC staff and planning consultants are available to offer programs on these principles, on the details of voluntary land conservation, and on issues of concern to local governments and developers. Please contact us for more information.

2003 Better Models Award winner, the Lexington Firehouse. Newly constructed in the downtown historic district, this public building respects local character and blends in well with the surrounding neighborhood.