In
communities across the nation, there is a growing
concern that current development patterns --
dominated by what some call "sprawl"
-- are no longer in the long-term interest of
our cities, existing suburbs, small towns, rural
communities, or wilderness areas. Though supportive
of growth, communities are questioning the economic
costs of abandoning infrastructure in the city,
only to rebuild it further out.
Spurring
the smart growth movement are demographic shifts,
a strong environmental ethic, increased fiscal
concerns, and more nuanced views of growth.
The result is both a new demand and a new opportunity
for smart growth.
The
features that distinguish smart growth in a
community vary from place to place. In general,
smart growth invests time, attention, and resources
in restoring community and vitality to center
cities and older suburbs. New smart growth is
more town-centered, is transit and pedestrian
oriented, and has a greater mix of housing,
commercial and retail uses. It also preserves
open space and many other environmental amenities.
