This report examines issues that need to be addressed to create a comprehensive community-based early intervention system, in conjunction with provisions of Part H of Public Law 99-457. The report examines issues addressed by service providers in local jurisdictions developing programs for infants and toddlers with handicaps and their families, and reviews relationships between and among State and local planning initiatives. The research was designed as a case study of a mid-Atlantic State with a variety of demographic characteristics. Data were gathered through interviews with 30 state officials, 30 parents, 9 pediatricians, and 50 personnel from local jurisdictions. Findings are presented as they relate to information and accessibility issues, local planning issues and concerns, and state/local relationships. Recommendations and action steps for developing a community-based Part H service system are outlined. Technical assistance activities suggested by the study findings are discussed. Appendixes contain: (1) an executive summary of "A Profile of State Interagency Efforts for Children with Special Needs and Their Families" (EC 300 591); and (2) a discussion of the features of interagency efforts in terms of cooperation, coordination, and collaboration. (JDD)