Smart growth is development that serves the economy, the
community and the environment. It changes the terms of the
development debate away from the traditional growth/no growth
question to "How and where should new development be
accommodated?" Smart Growth answers these questions by
simultaneously achieving: - Healthy communities -- that provide
families with a clean environment. Smart growth balances
development and environmental protection -- accommodating growth
while preserving open space and critical habitat, reusing land,
and protecting water supplies and air quality. - Economic
development and jobs -- that create more business opportunities,
local tax base improvements, provide neighborhood services and
amenities, and create economically competitive communities. -
Strong neighborhoods -- which provide a range of housing options
giving people the opportunity to choose housing that best suits
them. Smart growth provides the choice to walk, ride a bike,
take transit, or drive. It maintains and enhances