Smart growth

Definition

Smart growth is an urban planning approach that promotes sustainable development by focusing on creating compact, walkable, and transit-oriented communities. It aims to reduce urban sprawl, improve quality of life, and protect natural resources by encouraging efficient land use and promoting mixed-use development. This strategy emphasizes a balance between economic growth and environmental stewardship, making it essential for fostering vibrant communities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Smart growth strategies aim to reduce traffic congestion by promoting walking, biking, and the use of public transportation.
2. The approach encourages the preservation of open spaces and agricultural land by directing growth towards existing urban areas.
3. Smart growth includes policies that support affordable housing, ensuring diverse community options for all income levels.
4. Community engagement is a vital component of smart growth, as it seeks to involve residents in decision-making processes about land use and development.
5. Smart growth principles are often implemented through zoning reforms, which allow for more flexible land use and promote mixed-use developments.

Review Questions

• How does smart growth differ from traditional urban planning approaches?
  • Smart growth differs from traditional urban planning by emphasizing compact, walkable communities rather than spreading out into larger areas. While conventional approaches often lead to urban sprawl and increased car dependency, smart growth promotes mixed-use developments and integrates transportation options to create accessible environments. This shift aims to enhance quality of life while minimizing environmental impact.
• Evaluate the role of community engagement in the successful implementation of smart growth strategies.
  • Community engagement is crucial for the successful implementation of smart growth strategies as it fosters collaboration between residents and planners. Involving the community ensures that development reflects local needs and values, leading to more sustainable outcomes. By incorporating feedback from residents, planners can create vibrant spaces that enhance livability while also addressing concerns about gentrification or displacement.
• Discuss the potential long-term effects of adopting smart growth principles on urban sustainability and resilience.
  • Adopting smart growth principles can significantly enhance urban sustainability and resilience by creating communities that are better equipped to handle environmental challenges. Over time, such practices can lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions due to lower vehicle reliance, improved air quality, and more green spaces. These benefits contribute to healthier populations and greater adaptability to climate change impacts, ultimately fostering long-term community well-being.

Related terms

Urban sprawl: The uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into surrounding rural land, leading to increased dependence on automobiles and loss of open space.

Transit-oriented development (TOD): A type of urban development that focuses on creating dense, mixed-use communities near public transportation hubs to encourage public transit use and reduce car dependency.

Sustainable development: Development that meets present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often incorporating economic, social, and environmental considerations.