News Releases from Region 10

EPA to Help Port Townsend, Washington, Improve Health, Environment and Revitalize Local Economy

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that Port Townsend, Washington, is one of 10 communities across the country to participate in the Healthy Places for Healthy People planning assistance program.

Healthy Places for Healthy People is a new initiative that helps communities leverage health care facilities to foster downtown revitalization and economic growth, improve health, and protect the environment.

In Port Townsend, the North Olympic Peninsula Resource Conservation and Development Council, Jefferson Healthcare and the City of Port Townsend will partner with community organizations to repurpose a former school into an integrated center to house health care, social services, community wellness, and strengthened emergency preparedness.

EPA support for Healthy Places for Healthy People is provided through the EPA's Office of Sustainable Communities which promotes locally led, community-driven solutions to protect human health and the environment, and strengthen local economies.

Through Healthy Places for Healthy People, a team of experts will help community members and health care facility partners develop strategies and an action plan to address persistent needs such as better health, improved public safety, basic infrastructure, and jobs. Partner organizations include community health centers, including Federally Qualified Health Centers, nonprofit hospitals, and other health care facilities.

In many communities, health care facilities can be catalysts for economic development, while investment in existing neighborhoods can support walkability, protect air and water quality, encourage cleanup and reuse of contaminated properties, and conserve open spaces and natural resources.

Healthy Places for Healthy People:  https://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/healthy-places-healthy-people.