The division is responsible for the Comprehensive Sustainability Plan, which was adopted in 2023 to advance its sustainability and resiliency goals, including its clean energy pledge. The plan will guide future development and the transition to 100% clean energy. It will balance environmental stewardship, resiliency and racial justice with smart growth to allow for a thriving economy and quality of life in Hillsborough.

• Comprehensive Sustainability Plan — Full Plan
• Comprehensive Sustainability Plan — Executive Summary
• Comprehensive Sustainability Plan — Appendix

The division has won the following awards:

North Carolina Marvin Collins Award: Honorable Mention ― For outstanding planning on the Comprehensive Sustainability Plan from the North Carolina Chapter of the American Planning Association in 2023.

Engineering Excellence ― For planning and mapping on the Comprehensive Sustainability Plan from the American Council of Engineering Companies in 2023.

People's Choice Award ― For the Comprehensive Sustainability Plan from the American Council of Engineering Companies in 2023.

The division:

• Uses placemaking strategies and sustainability principles to provide healthy inviting spaces that encourage relationships and showcase the town's natural and cultural resources
• Focuses on building accessible bicycle and pedestrian connections between neighborhoods and area destinations.
• Looks for opportunities to integrate public art into the landscape.