which action is a way to carry out smart growth

2 min read 26-02-2025

which action is a way to carry out smart growth

Smart growth is an urban planning and transportation strategy that aims to create sustainable and livable communities. It prioritizes efficient land use, mixed-use development, and walkability, among other key features. But what specific actions contribute to achieving smart growth goals? Let's explore some impactful strategies.

Key Actions for Implementing Smart Growth

Smart growth isn't just a concept; it's a collection of deliberate actions. Here are some of the most effective ways to carry it out:

1. Prioritize Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)

What it is: TOD focuses on building dense, mixed-use communities around public transportation hubs like train stations and bus rapid transit lines. This reduces reliance on cars, easing traffic congestion and promoting sustainability.

Why it's smart growth: TOD reduces sprawl, cuts down on greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles, and makes communities more accessible to a wider range of residents. It promotes walkability and bikeability, encouraging a healthier lifestyle.

Example: Developing apartments, shops, and offices within walking distance of a light rail station.

2. Invest in Complete Streets

What it is: Complete Streets design incorporates infrastructure for all users – pedestrians, cyclists, public transit riders, and drivers – ensuring safe and accessible roadways.

Why it's smart growth: Complete Streets promote multimodal transportation, creating safer and more enjoyable experiences for everyone. This can encourage more people to walk, bike, or use public transit, reducing car dependency.

Example: Adding bike lanes, wider sidewalks, and improved crosswalks to existing roads.

3. Encourage Mixed-Use Development

What it is: Mixed-use development combines residential, commercial, and recreational spaces in a single area. This creates vibrant, self-sufficient neighborhoods.

Why it's smart growth: Mixed-use developments reduce the need for long commutes, support local businesses, and foster a stronger sense of community. They also make better use of existing infrastructure.

Example: Building apartments above shops and restaurants in a downtown area.

4. Preserve Open Space and Green Infrastructure

What it is: Protecting existing natural areas, parks, and green spaces, and strategically incorporating green infrastructure (like rain gardens and green roofs) into urban design.

Why it's smart growth: Green spaces improve air and water quality, provide recreational opportunities, and mitigate the effects of climate change. Preserving them helps maintain biodiversity and enhances the quality of life.

Example: Creating a network of parks and trails connected throughout the city.

5. Foster Brownfield Redevelopment

What it is: Revitalizing previously developed sites that may be contaminated or underutilized. This avoids further urban sprawl and makes use of existing infrastructure.

Why it's smart growth: Redeveloping brownfields reduces environmental hazards, creates jobs, and revitalizes neighborhoods. It is more sustainable than building on undeveloped land.

Example: Cleaning up a former industrial site and transforming it into a residential or commercial area.

6. Implement Smart Growth Policies and Regulations

What it is: Creating zoning regulations, tax incentives, and other policies that encourage smart growth principles.

Why it's smart growth: Strong policies are crucial for guiding development and ensuring that smart growth principles are implemented effectively. These policies provide a framework for future development.

Example: Implementing zoning regulations that promote density and mixed-use development in certain areas.

Conclusion: Building Sustainable and Livable Communities

Implementing smart growth strategies requires a multifaceted approach. By prioritizing transit-oriented development, complete streets, mixed-use development, open space preservation, brownfield redevelopment, and supportive policies, communities can create vibrant, sustainable, and livable environments for all residents. These actions are crucial for building a better future. Smart growth isn't just about planning; it's about building a better quality of life.