Smart growth

Definition

Smart growth refers to an urban planning approach that promotes sustainable and efficient development patterns to create livable communities. It aims to curb urban sprawl, enhance public transportation options, and foster mixed-use development that encourages walking and cycling. By integrating land use and transportation planning, smart growth seeks to balance economic, environmental, and social goals for the betterment of communities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Smart growth emphasizes higher density development in urban areas to minimize land consumption and preserve open spaces.
2. It encourages investment in public transportation systems to reduce reliance on cars and improve accessibility for residents.
3. Community involvement is crucial in smart growth initiatives, allowing residents to shape the development of their neighborhoods.
4. Zoning regulations often need to be updated or revised to accommodate smart growth principles and allow for more flexible land use.
5. Smart growth strategies can lead to economic benefits by attracting businesses and improving property values in well-planned areas.

Review Questions

• How does smart growth address the issues associated with urban sprawl?
  • Smart growth tackles urban sprawl by promoting higher density development within existing urban areas rather than expanding into rural land. This approach conserves open space, reduces infrastructure costs, and limits the negative environmental impacts often associated with sprawling development. By encouraging mixed-use developments and enhancing public transportation options, smart growth creates walkable communities that lessen the dependency on cars, ultimately leading to a more sustainable urban environment.
• Discuss the role of public transportation in smart growth initiatives and how it influences urban design.
  • Public transportation is a central element of smart growth as it provides residents with viable alternatives to car travel. Effective public transit systems encourage denser development around transit hubs, fostering transit-oriented development (TOD) that integrates residential and commercial spaces. This not only makes neighborhoods more accessible but also enhances the overall quality of life by reducing traffic congestion and pollution. The design of urban areas is influenced by the proximity of transportation options, making it essential for planners to prioritize connectivity in their designs.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of smart growth strategies on community resilience and sustainability.
  • The long-term impact of smart growth strategies on community resilience is significant as they foster sustainable practices that help cities adapt to changing environmental conditions. By promoting diverse land uses, effective public transport, and community engagement in planning processes, smart growth enhances social equity and economic vitality. Over time, these strategies can lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved public health outcomes due to increased walkability, and a stronger sense of community among residents. As cities face challenges such as climate change and population growth, implementing smart growth principles becomes crucial for building resilient urban environments.

Related terms

Urban Sprawl: The uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into the surrounding rural land, often leading to environmental degradation and increased reliance on automobiles.

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): A type of urban development that maximizes access to public transport, creating compact, walkable communities around transit stations.

Mixed-Use Development: A real estate development that combines residential, commercial, and sometimes industrial spaces within a single area to promote community interaction and reduce travel distances.