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Smart Growth Overview
From the Smart Growth Network, formed by the US EPA and the Sustainable Communities Network as well as other non-profit organizations:
In communities across the nation, there is a growing concern that current development patterns -- dominated by what some call "sprawl" -- are no longer in the long-term interest of our cities, existing suburbs, small towns, rural communities, or wilderness areas. Though supportive of growth, communities are questioning the economic costs of abandoning infrastructure in the city, only to rebuild it further out.
Spurring the smart growth movement are demographic shifts, a strong environmental ethic, increased fiscal concerns, and more nuanced views of growth. The result is both a new demand and a new opportunity for smart growth.
The features that distinguish smart growth in a community vary from place to place. In general, smart growth invests time, attention, and resources in restoring community and vitality to center cities and older suburbs. New smart growth is more town-centered, is transit and pedestrian oriented, and has a greater mix of housing, commercial and retail uses. It also preserves open space and many other environmental amenities.
The Smart Growth Principles and Issues describe in greater details the various aspects of planning and development that make up smart growth.
Principles of Smart Growth
Below is a list of principles of Smart Growth. The best smart growth developments combined several of these principles to create a cohesive, community feel.
Mixed-use activity centers - enhance civic, social, educational, cultural and economic life as well as transportation.
Appropriate development patterns - direct development to areas where municipal services, roads and utilities are already available.
Green Space - preserve sensitive areas, create a network of open space, provide natural amenities within communities.
Walkable communities - create a safe friendly atmosphere designed with pedestrians and bicyclists in mind.
Integrated transportation - link new and existing residential, employment, commercial and recreational areas.
Enhanced civic realm - place a priority on the accessibility, architectural compatibility, and preserving what's best of the present and past for enjoyment by future generations.
Affordable living - promote a variety of choices in housing and transportation both integrated and accessible across communities.
Shared benefits - distribute the benefits of growth to all residents and businesses equally.
Community collaboration - promote involvement of all stakeholders in community decisions.
Fairness - ensure development decisions are fair and cost effective.