Atlanta Regional Commission
The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) is the official planning agency for the 11-county Atlanta region, focusing on transportation, aging services, water resources, workforce development, and homeland security to foster thriving communities.
Services
The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) provides a range of services aimed at fostering thriving communities in the 11-county Atlanta region. Services include regional transportation planning, aging services, water resources management, workforce development, and homeland security. Specific programs include the Livable Centers Initiative (LCI), Community Development Assistance Program (CDAP), and Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). The ARC aims to address housing affordability through the Metro Atlanta Housing Strategy, and environmental sustainability with the Green Communities program.
Mission and Goals
The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) is dedicated to fostering thriving communities within the Atlanta region through collaborative, data-informed planning and investments. ARC's strategic goals include promoting healthy, safe, and livable communities, making strategic investments in people, infrastructure, and mobility, and preserving natural resources. They are also committed to delivering regional services with operational excellence and efficiency.
Programs and Initiatives
ARC runs several programs and initiatives to support community development and sustainability. The Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) provides grants to local jurisdictions to create vibrant, walkable communities. The Community Development Assistance Program (CDAP) offers planning and technical support to metro Atlanta communities. The Green Communities program is a voluntary sustainability certification for local governments. Furthermore, the Climate Change & Resilience program focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing regional resilience.
Workforce Development
ARC's Workforce Solutions Division manages WorkSource Atlanta Regional, which serves Cherokee, Clayton, Douglas, Fayette, Gwinnett, Henry, and Rockdale counties. This program offers services tailored to meet the needs of employers and job seekers. Additionally, the Georgia Commute Options (GCO) program collaborates with employers, commuters, and schools to reduce the number of single-occupant vehicles on the road, promoting more sustainable commute solutions.
Leadership and Education Programs
ARC offers leadership development programs like the Regional Leadership Institute (RLI) and the LINK program. RLI prepares diverse leaders from community, government, business, and nonprofit sectors to address regional issues collaboratively. The LINK program takes influential leaders to other metropolitan areas in North America to learn innovative approaches for tackling challenges faced by metro Atlanta. The Model Atlanta Regional Commission (MARC) program engages high school students in understanding regional issues and challenges.