Smart Growth
Smart growth has been defined as land use policy that covers a range of development and conservation strategies that help protect our natural environment and make our communities more attractive, economically stronger, and more socially diverse. Smart growth values long-range, regional considerations of sustainability over a short-term focus. Its goals are to achieve a unique sense of community and place; expand the range of transportation, employment, and housing choices; equitably distribute the costs and benefits of development; preserve and enhance natural and cultural resources; and promote public health. Historic preservation plays an important part in achieving Smart Growth.
While these examples of policies are widely applicable, state enabling laws for planning and zoning vary from state to state. Local government officials and others considering these tools should consult with knowledgeable legal authorities in their jurisdictions while examining the recommended policies.
For more information on these topics visit the National Trust's Main Street website.
Smart Growth Toolkit
The National Trust's Smart Growth Toolkit provides you with several progressive smart growth tools to combat sprawl while preserving the uniqueness and economic health of your town.
Other Resources
Urbane Renewalist
Author John O’hara once wrote, after the death of his friend George Gershwin, “I don’t have to believe that if I don’t want to.” That’s pretty much how I felt when I learned of Jane Jacobs’ death in April.
The Short Answer: Bruce Babbitt
interview with Bruce Babbitt
Fending off Sprawl
Oatlands works to preserve its rural setting.
Developer to Buy, Preserve Tempe's "Most Important" House
A Tempe restaurant, in business since 1954, is a de facto city landmark, but it also operates out of one of the oldest buildings in Tempe: the Hayden House, an 1873 Adobe row house built by city patriarch Charles Trumbull Hayden.
Now Monti's La Casa Vieja restaurant, located in what has become one of Tempe's most fashionable neighborhoods, is being sold to a developer. Owner Michael Monti and Phoenix-based developer 3W companies have inked a deal that will keep the building safe and sound.
Calif. City Wants to Raze Eight Hotels for Parking
What's better for downtown Stockton, Calif.: Eight hotels built between 1874 and 1914 or 130 parking spaces?
