There are a lot of creative things we can do and will do - because smart growth is in everyone's best interest. If we've learned anything over the years, it's that development affects every aspect of life from how much we pay in taxes to how long it takes us from home to work. With today's approval, we have a blueprint for the future. The participation and passion that put this plan together tells me that New Jersey is ready to put this to work. Penn State's Joe Paterno once said that the will to win is important, but the will to prepare is vital.
Smart growth is all about preparation for our future, preparing our state for each new generation.
A great coach knows what the end result will look like. I want that end result to be smart growth and that is what this plan is about. I salute the State Planning Commission for its efforts. I want to thank Chairman Joe Maraziti, Charles Kuperus, chairman of the Plan Development Committee, and members of the State Planning Commission for their stewardship in guiding this plan to completion. This plan will focus on land use, redevelopment, economic development, housing, public facilities and services, including education and public safety, environmental protection, conservation, intergovernmental coordination and quality of community life-all of which are critical to regional strategic revitalization.