Smart growth

Definition

Smart growth is an urban planning approach that promotes sustainable, environmentally friendly, and economically viable development patterns in cities. It focuses on creating compact, walkable communities that reduce dependence on cars, enhance public transportation, and improve the quality of life for residents. By integrating land use and transportation planning, smart growth aims to create vibrant neighborhoods with a mix of housing, jobs, and amenities accessible to all.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Smart growth encourages infill development, which utilizes vacant or underused land within existing urban areas instead of expanding into rural areas.
2. One key principle of smart growth is to promote diverse transportation options, including walking, biking, and public transit to reduce reliance on automobiles.
3. This approach emphasizes preserving open spaces and natural resources by promoting higher density development in urban areas.
4. Smart growth initiatives often include community engagement processes to ensure that the needs and desires of local residents are taken into account during planning.
5. Economic benefits of smart growth include increased property values and local business viability due to enhanced accessibility and livability.

Review Questions

• How does smart growth influence transportation infrastructure in urban settings?
  • Smart growth significantly impacts transportation infrastructure by promoting multi-modal transport options that reduce dependence on cars. By designing walkable communities with easy access to public transportation, it encourages residents to use buses, trains, or bikes instead of personal vehicles. This shift not only helps reduce traffic congestion but also minimizes environmental impacts associated with car travel while fostering healthier lifestyles among residents.
• Discuss the relationship between smart growth principles and community engagement in urban planning.
  • Smart growth principles prioritize community engagement as a fundamental aspect of successful urban planning. By involving residents in the decision-making process, planners can better understand local needs and preferences, leading to developments that reflect the community's values. This collaborative approach helps create spaces that are not only functional but also foster a sense of belonging among residents, ultimately enhancing the livability and vibrancy of urban environments.
• Evaluate the potential economic impacts of implementing smart growth strategies in cities.
  • Implementing smart growth strategies can lead to significant economic impacts for cities by increasing property values and stimulating local economies. By creating walkable neighborhoods with mixed-use developments, smart growth attracts businesses and enhances foot traffic, which supports local shops and services. Additionally, improved public transportation options can increase accessibility for workers, contributing to a more robust job market while reducing infrastructure costs associated with sprawling developments.

Related terms

Transit-oriented development: A type of urban development that maximizes access to public transport, typically featuring higher density residential and commercial areas near transit stations.

Mixed-use development: A type of development that combines residential, commercial, and recreational spaces within a single project or area, promoting a vibrant community atmosphere.

Sustainable urbanism: An approach to urban planning that prioritizes ecological health, social equity, and economic viability, aiming for long-term sustainability in city development.