Smart Growth is a set of urban planning and transportation strategies aimed at fostering sustainable development. It emphasizes efficient land use to create compact, walkable cities with mixed-use development and diverse housing opportunities. This approach contrasts with sprawling suburban development, which can lead to increased traffic, environmental degradation, and social inequality.
Core Principles
The Smart Growth movement is guided by several core principles:
Efficient Land Use
Maximizing the utility of available land through infill development and redevelopment of underutilized urban spaces.
Mixed-Use Development
Promoting a blend of residential, commercial, and recreational uses within a single area to reduce the need for long commutes and engender vibrant communities.
Transportation Choices
Offering various transportation options such as public transit, cycling, and walking to reduce dependency on automobiles and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Community Engagement
Involving local communities in planning decisions to ensure developments meet their needs and preserve cultural and historical assets.
Environmental Sustainability
Encouraging green building practices, preserving open space, and protecting natural resources to enhance environmental quality.
Historical Context
The Smart Growth concept emerged in response to the environmental and social challenges posed by suburban sprawl, which first became evident in the mid-20th century. This movement gained traction in the 1990s, with policymakers and planners advocating for more sustainable development practices. Key landmark publications and policies, such as the book “Suburban Nation” (2000) by Andres Duany, Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk, and Jeff Speck, have helped shape public consciousness around these issues.
Applicability
Smart Growth principles can be applied to various scales and contexts:
Urban Areas
In dense urban centers, Smart Growth principles can guide redevelopment projects to make better use of limited space and enhance the quality of life for residents.
Suburban Areas
In suburban regions, retrofitting existing neighborhoods to include mixed-use developments and expanding transportation choices can mitigate some of the negative impacts of sprawl.
Rural Areas
For rural communities, Smart Growth can guide the planning of new developments to preserve farmland and natural landscapes while fostering robust local economies.
Comparisons
Smart Growth vs. Urban Sprawl
| Aspect | Smart Growth | Urban Sprawl |
|---|---|---|
| Land Use | Efficient, mixed-use | Inefficient, single-use |
| Transportation | Diverse, multi-modal options | Car-dependent |
| Environmental Impact | Lower greenhouse gas emissions | Higher emissions and pollution |
| Social Impact | Inclusive, community-oriented | Segregated, isolated communities |
Related Terms
- Infill Development: The process of developing vacant or underutilized parcels within existing urban areas.
- Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): Urban development designed to maximize access to public transport.
- Urban Renewal: Programs aimed at redeveloping and revitalizing decayed urban areas.
FAQs
What are the benefits of Smart Growth?
How does Smart Growth address affordability?
Is Smart Growth only applicable to large cities?
References
- Duany, A., Plater-Zyberk, E., & Speck, J. (2000). Suburban Nation: The Rise of Sprawl and the Decline of the American Dream. North Point Press.
- Smart Growth America. (n.d.). Principles of Smart Growth. Retrieved from Smart Growth America.
Summary
Smart Growth represents a visionary approach to urban development that prioritizes sustainability, community well-being, and efficient land use. By integrating mixed-use developments, diverse transportation options, and community involvement, Smart Growth aims to create vibrant, equitable, and environmentally-friendly communities. As cities worldwide face the challenges of rapid urbanization and climate change, Smart Growth provides a framework for building resilient and livable urban spaces.
