Thanks, Peakguy, excellent subject!  How sad that there has been not a single comment up to now.  

One of my highest priorities is to eventually move to a transit village or other compact, traditional neighborhood with a train station.  

I live in New Jersey, by the way, and look forward to visiting a few of the towns cited on the list of villages you provided.  They are our past and our future, and those who won't prepare shall be left behind.  

Keep up the good work!

Erwin

Since I live in South Amboy, I get a first hand view of what is happening and not happening.  The changes are positive, but I hope the city can start to support more sustainable rather than growth oriented future.  They've started a Tuesday (?) Farmers Market and some of the land slated for development is being battled in court.  I'm hopeful that the community will have more input into the community center that's in the works.  Maybe a power down or descent frame of view can take hold.  There is a coal power plant in town and there was talk of a co-gen plant but that looks to be a no-go.  Maybe solar or wind plant could utilized the power structure in place and benefit everyone. I'm looking to start a relocalization/community group.  Maybe I will get off my duff and actually put up some posters and get to meet some people in town and see what happens.  
I encourage you to first try to engage with your own community and try to make things happen. Don't get discouraged too quickly. If you find it's not productive, then consider other options.