The 21st Century Communities program is intended to assist rural leaders who accept this challenge prepare rural Utah for unprecedented population and visitor growth, create new jobs and reduce unemployment, diversify rural economies and protect quality of life.

Many of Utah's fastest growing communities are located outside the Wasatch Front, in rural Utah. Small towns do not have the staff, budget nor the expertise to address their community planning concerns. Planning assistance is required in developing general plans, affordable housing plans, subdivision ordinances, economic development strategies, and in updating zoning ordinances.

Circuit Rider Planners

The Circuit Rider Planner Grant Program is a powerful tool of the 21st Century Communities program that provides planners and planning assistance to groups of rural communities and counties that would otherwise be unable to dedicate the resources necessary to obtain professional planning aid.(more)

Extending Our Reach Through Partnerships

The GOPB works closely with the Governor's Rural Partnership Office to meet the needs of communities in rural Utah to effectively address issues regarding change and how to become 21st Century Communities.

How to become a 21st Century Community

Below is a list of Utah communities have been proactive in addressing the challenges of growth and been designated a 21st Century Community.

21st Century Communities