smart growth

Smart growth is a strategy for managing urban development to promote economic growth while minimizing the environmental, economic, and community costs associated with urban sprawl. It emphasizes principles such as increasing housing opportunities, creating pedestrian-friendly communities, and preserving open spaces.1

Key aspects of smart growth include:
* Integrating diverse land uses within communities.
* Enhancing transportation choices beyond private automobiles.
* Designing compact homes and businesses for energy efficiency.
* Encouraging citizen participation in decision-making.

Urban growth boundaries are a tool used in smart growth to separate areas for urban expansion from open space, encouraging development within existing city limits. Transit villages, ecovillages, and conservation developments are other alternatives that promote denser living and reduced reliance on cars.12