For Immediate Release

Contact: Bob Lazaro, PEC, 571-225-0198

PEC Launches Innovative Web-based Development Tracking Tool

(Leesburg, VA - July 16, 2008) The Piedmont Environmental Council is pleased to announce the launch of LocalDecisions.org, an innovative web-based tool that lets citizens know what un-built development projects, both approved and proposed, are located near them. The tool is an integration of Google Maps API, local planning data and Convio advocacy software. The initial launch is for Loudoun County only, but data for additional counties will be available soon.

"Providing residents with the opportunity to see what is happening in their neighborhoods is critical to an informed citizenry," said Christopher G. Miller, President of PEC. "This innovative tool will give folks basic information and help link citizens to their elected officials so they can quickly ask questions and/or express concerns."

The tracking tool was created with data from Loudoun County's Land Management Information System (LMIS). LocalDecisions.org maintains information such as the status of projects, the number of residential units and/or the commercial square footage associated with each project, as well as links to county documents when applicable and an opportunity to post comments related to each project.

"Loudoun County has in the pipeline approximately 38,000 residential units approved and ready to be built when the market changes. Basic information such as this gives our neighbors the opportunity to react when something is being proposed in their neighborhood," concluded Miller.