Urban Growth Boundaries

Definition

Urban growth boundaries (UGBs) are regional boundaries set to control urban sprawl by limiting the area available for development. This concept helps manage land use and encourages higher density in urban areas while protecting surrounding rural lands from development. UGBs are crucial in addressing the challenges of urbanization and land use by promoting sustainable growth patterns.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Urban growth boundaries were first implemented in Portland, Oregon, in the 1970s as a response to rapid urban sprawl and population growth.
2. UGBs aim to reduce infrastructure costs by concentrating development within designated areas and minimizing the need for costly extensions of services like water and electricity.
3. By limiting the area available for development, UGBs help preserve open space and agricultural land, maintaining the ecological balance and natural resources.
4. The effectiveness of UGBs often depends on public support and effective enforcement mechanisms to prevent illegal development outside designated areas.
5. Urban growth boundaries can influence housing affordability by restricting land supply, which may lead to higher prices within the boundary while protecting rural areas from development pressures.

Review Questions

• How do urban growth boundaries impact urban planning strategies?
  • Urban growth boundaries significantly influence urban planning by promoting compact development within designated areas. This encourages higher density living, which can reduce transportation costs and environmental impacts associated with sprawl. By limiting expansion outward, planners can focus on improving existing infrastructure and services while preserving surrounding natural landscapes.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of urban growth boundaries in managing urban sprawl and protecting rural lands.
  • Urban growth boundaries have proven effective in many regions by curbing urban sprawl and encouraging more efficient land use. They protect rural lands by designating specific areas for development, which can preserve agricultural zones and open spaces. However, their effectiveness relies on strong political will, community engagement, and strict enforcement measures to ensure that developments do not occur outside established boundaries.
• Assess the potential challenges that urban growth boundaries may face in future urban development scenarios.
  • As urban populations continue to grow, urban growth boundaries may face significant challenges such as increased housing demand and affordability issues within the boundary. This can lead to pressure for changes or exemptions to the boundaries as developers seek opportunities. Additionally, community opposition may arise if residents feel constrained by UGBs, creating conflicts between maintaining open spaces and accommodating population needs. Balancing these competing interests will be critical for the future success of UGBs.

Related terms

Smart Growth: An urban planning approach that aims to create sustainable, healthy communities by promoting walkable neighborhoods, mixed-use development, and preserving open spaces.

Zoning: The legal process of dividing land into zones to regulate the use of land and buildings, impacting where residential, commercial, and industrial activities can take place.

Sprawl: The uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into the surrounding rural landscape, often resulting in increased traffic, pollution, and loss of agricultural land.