Critical problems like transportation, public safety, economic development and sprawl affect an entire region, not just a single community, making a collaborative approach to problem-solving vital. Promote efficient use of land and infrastructure that retains public open space and provides transportation options. Zoning ordinances allowing mixed-use development, such as a store, an apartment building and a school in the same block, enable easy access to services. Such developments also decrease car-dependent travel as well as congestion and air pollution. Reduce sprawl and promote smarter growth by revitalizing existing neighborhoods where public infrastructure and private investment already exist.
Sprawl leads to urban decline while threatening rural community character.
And the environmental and social costs are significant, including loss of prime farmland, increased air pollution and congestion. In contrast, implementing smart growth measures can actually save communities money by reducing the need for costly investments in roads, water and sewer, and public schools. Build strong, diversified local economies by capitalizing on the unique strengths of local people and community character to create a competitive advantage. Local economic development proposals should fill a niche in the regional economy and promote partnerships among the private sector, workers, educators and government. Many communities promote diversity by supporting businesses at the forefront of environmental economic development.