Every new program gets a big boost when it includes “quick wins” –  actions that can be implemented within three to six months, have low to no capital costs (including feasibility studies), are politically benign, and promise benefits that will become apparent within six to 12 months.

The following actions are recommended for local government not already active in this sector: 

General

• Issue a resolution or statement of policy.  This signals to the private sector that your government supports innovative, sustainable infrastructure alternatives and that you are willing to be flexible with engineering design standards to get better site servicing. Or you can adopt an organization-wide sustainability policy or something as specific as a green procurement policy.
• Establish a “Sustainable Infrastructure Team”.  This team can  work toward developing longer-term policies and actions.  The team should be cross-departmental (Planning, Public Works, Sustainability Office, etc.) and should also include developers and representatives of state departments that oversee highways, the environment, or other pertinent fields.
• Develop voluntary design guidelines to encourage innovation. Design guidelines have long been used by municipalities to control the aesthetic quality of development. Increasingly, they are also being used to support sustainable design and development (including eco-industrial) practices. Even if design guidelines are not formally adopted, they can help to develop expertise and inspire change.
• Initiate one or more pilot projects. Identify projects that present opportunities for innovation or best management practices at a smaller scale. For example, rain gardens as part of a street renovation.