Benefits

Development decisions affect many of the things that touch people’s everyday lives – their homes, their health, the schools their children attend, the taxes they pay, their daily commute, the natural environment around them, economic growth in their community, and opportunities to achieve their dreams and goals. What, where, and how communities build will affect their residents’ lives for generations to come.

Communities across the country are using creative strategies to develop in ways that preserve natural lands and critical environmental areas, protect water and air quality, and reuse already-developed land. They conserve resources by reinvesting in existing infrastructure and reclaiming historic buildings. By designing neighborhoods that have shops, offices, schools, churches, parks, and other amenities near homes, communities are giving their residents and visitors the option of walking, bicycling, taking public transportation, or driving as they go about their business. A range of different types of homes makes it possible for senior citizens to stay in their homes as they age, young people to afford their first home, and families at all stages in between to find a safe, attractive home they can afford. Through smart growth approaches that enhance neighborhoods and involve local residents in development decisions, these communities are creating vibrant places to live, work, and play. The high quality of life in these communities makes them economically competitive, creates business opportunities, and improves the local tax base.

To learn more about Smart Growth, click on the links below:

EPA Smart Growth website

About Smart Growth

State Environmental League President Seeks Corporate Involvement in Massachusetts Smart Growth Advocacy

10 Steps to Grow Smarter

Smart Growth Bill Requires Massachusetts State Agencies to Coordinate Development Activities

Without Smart Growth, MetroFuture Report Paints Bleak Picture for Northern Boston Communities

”Visualizing Density” Book Illustrates How Good Design Is Critical to Success of Compact Growth

City Council Approves Smart-Growth District Designation for Downtown Haverhill

New Development Secretary Gottlieb Outlines Financial Rewards for Commonwealth’s High-Density Downtown Residential Districts

Natural Resources Defense Council – In Contrast: Smart Growth versus Sprawl

Smart Growth Tool Kit – Integration of Smart Growth / Smart Energy into Comprehensive Planning

Belmont – Our Lady of Mercy Smart Growth Overlay District