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Livability in Small Towns and Rural Areas What does “livability” mean in a smaller town or city? Some would have us believe that livability is a foreign concept for our small towns and rural areas. The reality couldn’t be farther from the truth. This collection of 12 case studies provides examples of how small cities, towns and rural regions across the country are transforming themselves into more livable communities. While some of these commu­nities face formidable threats – from job losses and shrinking populations to disappearing farmland and strained resources – their leaders have forged collabo­rations and created plans that are growing economies, bene.ting people and protecting the land and life­styles treasured by residents and non-residents alike. The exact de.nition may di.er place to place, but these case studies reveal some core values and needs that exist in these communities across America. It is about providing people, including seniors and those who cannot…