Village Center Designation granted for historic Essex Center
The Town of Essex is excited to announce that the Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development has approved the town’s Essex Village Center Designation application for historic Essex Center. The application was submitted in January of this year. The boundaries of the designated village center encompass the area along the intersection of VT Route 15, Towers Road and Browns River Road. Key properties include Essex Elementary School, Memorial Hall, the Essex Free Library, the Grange Hall, two churches, commercial buildings, and multifamily housing units.
The Vermont Village Center Designation program supports local revitalization efforts by providing technical assistance in planning and various tax credits from the state. The new Essex Village Center will also receive priority consideration for grants and resources from the following State of Vermont entities: Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD), Department of Transportation, Agency of Natural Resources (ANR), State Historic Preservation, ANR Water and Wastewater subsidies and loans, and other grants and incentives.
The Town’s Community Development Director Katherine Sonnick said, “Historic Essex Center has been a civic, cultural and economic center since it was established in 1794. The 2024 Town Plan envisions an Essex that continues building a community that is connected, diverse, sustainable and a joy to live in. One of the most important ways to do this is by investing in our centers. I believe that the benefits that come with a Village Center designation will serve as a catalyst to revitalize Essex Center.”
The designation takes effect immediately. With the recent passage of Act 181 in the 2024 legislative session, village center designations no longer require renewals, and the designation remains perpetually.
“This is an exciting opportunity for Essex to take advantage of a State of Vermont program and the benefits it brings to the Town and property owners. I commend the Community Development staff for pursuing the opportunity, and the Selectboard for supporting the work and designation,” said Essex Selectboard Chairperson Tracey Delphia.
