In an effort to find an enduring sustainability plan, the Mid-Hudson Sustainability Planning Consortium will hold a series of public forums, open to the entire community in Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Westchester and Ulster counties.

The plan encompasses a seven-county region.The Tri-State Transportation Campaign reports that the project is aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and encouraging smart development in the region, as part of Gov. Andrew Cuomo's Cleaner, Greener Communities program. The program aims to reduce emissions to 80 percent below the 1990 levels by the year 2050. The program is backed by $100 million in competitive grants, which will be awarded to New York's 10 regions based on their regional plans and smart, eco-friendly development. 

The plan encompasses a wide range of sustainability goals, from transportation and land use, to energy, waste management, water management, economic development, agriculture, foodsheds and governance.

The first public meeting on the Mid-Hudson Plan will be held on Monday, July 30th, at SUNY Orange. More information can be found here.

The project has also launched a Web site, Engage MidHudson, where residents can voice their ideas and opinions about the plan.