Federal environmental officials have picked six New England communities to get technical help improving the local economy and environment.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said it selected Fall River, Holyoke, Northampton and Roxbury as communities

Simsbury, Conn., and Burlington, Vt., are among 56 municipalities in 26 states that will receive help. Specialists will work with the communities on what they can do to improve the economy, environment and quality of life.

Some examples may include improving pedestrian access and safety, adapting improved environmental practices to public works and doing assessments on the economy and fiscal health of the communities.

"EPA is very pleased to be part of a coordinated effort to help these six New England communities develop practical and sustainable approaches that can lead to quality of life improvements for citizens, and which can help bolster our economy," said Curt Spalding, regional administrator of EPA’s New England office. (AP)