Smart growth

Definition

Smart growth is an urban planning approach that aims to create sustainable, vibrant, and livable communities by promoting efficient land use, reducing urban sprawl, and encouraging diverse housing options. This approach emphasizes the importance of public transportation, walkable neighborhoods, and mixed-use developments, ultimately leading to healthier lifestyles and improved environmental outcomes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Smart growth encourages compact, pedestrian-friendly communities that promote walking, biking, and the use of public transport to reduce reliance on cars.
2. The smart growth approach integrates green spaces and parks into urban environments, enhancing residents' quality of life and supporting biodiversity.
3. Policies associated with smart growth often include zoning reforms that facilitate mixed-use development, allowing for more diverse housing and business options.
4. Smart growth initiatives are designed to mitigate the negative impacts of urban sprawl by preserving open space and natural resources while accommodating population growth.
5. Communities adopting smart growth principles often see economic benefits through increased property values, reduced infrastructure costs, and improved public health outcomes.

Review Questions

• How does smart growth address the challenges of urban sprawl?
  • Smart growth tackles urban sprawl by promoting compact, efficient land use that minimizes the need for extensive road networks and reduces dependence on automobiles. By encouraging mixed-use developments and walkable neighborhoods, smart growth helps to create interconnected communities where residents can access services without long commutes. This not only protects rural lands from being developed but also fosters a sense of community and enhances the overall quality of life for residents.
• Discuss the role of public transportation in smart growth strategies.
  • Public transportation is a crucial component of smart growth strategies as it provides an alternative to car dependency and helps reduce traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions. Effective public transit systems connect various neighborhoods and commercial areas, making it easier for residents to travel without relying solely on vehicles. By integrating transit-oriented development with smart growth principles, cities can create vibrant communities that promote accessibility and sustainability.
• Evaluate the potential economic impacts of implementing smart growth policies in urban areas.
  • Implementing smart growth policies can lead to significant economic benefits for urban areas. By fostering mixed-use developments and increasing density, cities can attract new businesses and enhance property values. Additionally, reducing infrastructure costs associated with sprawling development allows municipalities to allocate resources more efficiently. Furthermore, promoting healthier lifestyles through walkable neighborhoods may lead to lower healthcare costs for residents. Overall, smart growth not only supports sustainable development but also stimulates local economies.

Related terms

Urban Sprawl: The uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into rural land, often resulting in a dependence on automobiles and loss of natural habitats.

Mixed-Use Development: A type of development that combines residential, commercial, and recreational spaces within a single area, promoting accessibility and community interaction.

Sustainable Development: Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often focusing on environmental stewardship and resource efficiency.