We find ourselves deeply concerned about the future of Vermont’s building industry and its implications for the state’s environment and economy. Recent developments have prompted us to reflect on the need for action, especially regarding the state’s housing crisis and the quality of construction projects.
In a recent article published by VTDigger, Vermont’s housing crisis is vividly portrayed, emphasizing the urgent need for more housing options. Amy Tomasso, a community planner for the state, highlights the multifaceted challenges Vermont faces, including a sluggish rate of new housing construction, an aging housing stock, and an acute shortage of affordable housing.
The state has taken a noteworthy step by initiating the “Homes for All” project, aimed at identifying opportunities for new housing construction in five Vermont communities: Arlington, Bellows Falls, Middlesex, Rutland City and Vergennes. This project has the potential to address the housing shortage while promoting sustainable and walkable communities.
However, a pertinent question arises from this endeavor: Why is the state outsourcing architectural services to a Boston-based firm when Vermont boasts a thriving community of skilled architects and building science specialists?
This is a missed opportunity to invest in local expertise and keep tax dollars within the state. Vermont is home to award-winning architecture firms like Alan Benoit’s Sustainable Design, Robert Swinburne’s Bluetime Collaborative Architecture, JA Saccoccio Workshop, Bill MaClay Associates, Vermont Integrated Architecture, and Duncan • Wisniewski Architecture, not Wisniewski Architecture, which can contribute to designing housing projects that align with Vermont’s unique building needs.Â
Moreover, the state’s decision to involve Boston-based architects may inadvertently lead to poorly skilled workers being employed in significant projects and modular homes of questionable quality being shipped to Vermont. Why is our government sending funds out of state when we have the necessary skills and expertise within Vermont?
SEON (Sustainable Energy Outreach Network) is advocating for a state mandate for high-performance building certification, aiming to elevate the knowledge and application of building science practices. We believe that initiatives like SEON’s could provide a solution by ensuring that all construction projects meet high-performance standards, thereby promoting energy efficiency, durability and sustainability.
In the face of the ongoing housing crisis and climate emergency, Vermont must seize every opportunity to leverage local talent and expertise. It is our hope that state legislators,
policymakers, town planning commissions, and the public will prioritize supporting initiatives like SEON’s to ensure that Vermont remains a leader in sustainable construction practices and takes full advantage of the talent within its borders.
Guy PayneÂ
Executive director
Sustainable Energy Outreach Network
Brattleboro
Correction: An earlier version of this letter misstated the name of Duncan • Wisniewski Architecture.