Smart growth

Definition

Smart growth is an urban planning approach that aims to promote sustainable development by encouraging compact, walkable communities with a mix of land uses. This method seeks to reduce urban sprawl, preserve open spaces, and create vibrant neighborhoods that support public transportation and active living. By focusing on efficient land use and community engagement, smart growth contributes to environmental sustainability and improves the quality of life for residents.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Smart growth principles advocate for high-density development, which can reduce infrastructure costs and promote efficient public service delivery.
2. Public participation is a key component of smart growth, allowing community members to have a voice in the planning process and ensuring that developments meet local needs.
3. The approach emphasizes the importance of preserving natural resources and green spaces, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change and maintain biodiversity.
4. Smart growth strategies can improve public health by promoting walking, biking, and the use of public transportation, leading to more active lifestyles.
5. Zoning reforms are often necessary to implement smart growth initiatives, as traditional zoning laws can hinder the creation of mixed-use developments and compact neighborhoods.

Review Questions

• How does smart growth address the challenges associated with urban sprawl?
  • Smart growth tackles urban sprawl by promoting higher-density development and mixed-use neighborhoods that reduce reliance on automobiles. This approach encourages walking, biking, and the use of public transportation, which helps minimize traffic congestion and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. By focusing on compact community designs, smart growth preserves open spaces and agricultural land, creating a more sustainable urban environment.
• Evaluate the role of public participation in smart growth initiatives and its impact on community planning.
  • Public participation is crucial in smart growth initiatives as it empowers residents to influence decision-making processes regarding their neighborhoods. Engaging the community allows planners to better understand local needs and preferences, leading to more effective and accepted developments. This collaborative approach not only fosters a sense of ownership among residents but also helps ensure that new projects align with the values and desires of the community.
• Assess the long-term benefits of implementing smart growth strategies in urban environments compared to traditional planning methods.
  • Implementing smart growth strategies in urban environments offers numerous long-term benefits compared to traditional planning methods. These strategies promote sustainable development through reduced infrastructure costs, enhanced public health from increased physical activity, and environmental preservation by protecting green spaces. Additionally, smart growth fosters economic vitality by creating vibrant, attractive communities that draw businesses and residents alike. Ultimately, these benefits contribute to a higher quality of life and greater resilience against challenges such as climate change.

Related terms

Urban sprawl: The uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into the surrounding rural land, often leading to increased traffic congestion and loss of open space.

Transit-oriented development: A type of urban development that is designed to maximize access to public transportation, creating walkable neighborhoods with a high density of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Mixed-use development: A planning strategy that combines residential, commercial, and recreational spaces in a single development to promote community interaction and reduce the need for automobile travel.