The Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) is a program offered by the Atlanta Regional Commission that encourages local jurisdictions to plan and implement strategies that link transportation improvements with land use development strategies to create sustainable, livable communities consistent with regional development policies. 

Planning grants are awarded on a competitive basis to local governments and non-profit organizations to prepare plans for the enhancement of existing centers and corridors. Doing so maximizes the advantage of the infrastructure and private investments already committed in these communities and helps achieve more balanced regional development. This development reduces vehicle miles traveled and improves air quality. The primary goals of the program are to:

• Encourage a diversity of mixed-income residential neighborhoods, employment, shopping and recreation choices at the activity center, town center and corridor level
• Provide access to a range of travel modes including transit, roadways, walking and biking to enable access to all uses within the study area
• Develop an outreach process that promotes the involvement of all stakeholders

The ARC Board has approved $13 million in study funds - $1 million annually - for use in years 2000 to 2012. The studies are awarded on a competitive basis to local governments and non-profit sponsors for producing plans that define future center development strategies and support public and private investments. The ARC Board also approved an initial allocation of $350 million for priority funding of transportation projects resulting from Livable Centers Initiative studies. An additional $150 million was approved for these projects in the 2030 RTP, for a total commitment of $500 million dedicated to transportation projects resulting from completed LCI studies.

LCI Boundaries Available for Google Earth

Download LCI Boundaries into Google Earth (Google Earth file)
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LCI Videos

• Video: “LCI: Catalyst for Change”
  Created in 1999, the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Livable Centers Initiative program connects homes, shops and offices, enhances streetscapes and sidewalks, emphasizes pedestrians, improves access to transit options and expands housing choices. This nine-minute video explores the LCI program and profiles three LCI communities – West End, Woodstock and Perimeter Center Community Improvement Districts.
  View this video now: Windows Media Player
• Video: "Livable, Healthy Communities"
  This episode showcases new developments in communities across the region that promote quality growth principles by successfully mixing live, work and play options. The show also includes interviews with experts in development, housing, community improvement and livable communities.
  View this episode now: Windows Media Player