Smart growth

Definition

Smart growth is an urban planning approach that focuses on sustainable development, emphasizing compact, walkable communities to improve quality of life and reduce environmental impact. It advocates for mixed-use development, efficient public transportation, and preserving open spaces, which leads to enhanced urban mobility. This concept encourages cities to grow in a way that benefits residents economically, socially, and environmentally.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Smart growth promotes higher-density development, which can lead to more efficient public services and reduced infrastructure costs.
2. It seeks to limit urban sprawl by encouraging development in already urbanized areas, preserving rural land and natural habitats.
3. The concept supports mixed-use developments that combine residential, commercial, and recreational spaces to create vibrant neighborhoods.
4. Smart growth initiatives often include enhancing public transportation options, making it easier for residents to access jobs, schools, and services without needing a car.
5. Community involvement is a key component of smart growth planning, ensuring that development reflects the needs and desires of local residents.

Review Questions

• How does smart growth influence urban mobility and the overall design of cities?
  • Smart growth significantly influences urban mobility by promoting compact and walkable neighborhoods. By designing cities with mixed-use developments and enhancing public transportation systems, smart growth reduces the need for cars, leading to decreased traffic congestion and improved air quality. This approach not only enhances accessibility for residents but also fosters a sense of community through more pedestrian-friendly environments.
• Evaluate the potential economic benefits of implementing smart growth strategies in urban areas.
  • Implementing smart growth strategies can lead to substantial economic benefits for urban areas by increasing property values due to desirable living conditions. Compact communities tend to attract businesses that thrive on foot traffic, contributing to local job creation. Additionally, the reduction in infrastructure costs from limiting urban sprawl can free up resources for other public investments, further stimulating economic growth in the region.
• Analyze the role of community engagement in shaping effective smart growth policies and practices.
  • Community engagement is crucial in shaping effective smart growth policies because it ensures that development plans reflect the values and needs of local residents. By actively involving the community in decision-making processes, planners can gather valuable insights and foster a sense of ownership among residents regarding their neighborhoods. This collaborative approach not only enhances the success of smart growth initiatives but also promotes social equity by giving marginalized voices a platform in urban development discussions.

Related terms

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

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): A design approach that focuses on creating compact, mixed-use communities centered around high-quality public transport systems to promote accessibility and reduce reliance on cars.

Zoning Regulations: Laws that define how property in specific geographic zones can be used, which can either encourage or hinder smart growth initiatives by controlling land use patterns.