Smart growth directs development towards existing communities already served by infrastructure, seeking to utilize the resources that existing neighborhoods offer, and conserve open space and irreplaceable natural resources on the urban fringe.
Development in existing neighborhoods also represents an approach to growth that can be more cost-effective, and improves the quality of life for its residents.
While typical zoning requirements in fringe areas are often easier to comply with, as there are often few existing building types that new construction must compliment, and a relative absence of residents who may object to the inconvenience or disruption caused by new construction.
By encouraging development in existing communities, communities benefit from a stronger tax base, closer proximity of a range of jobs and services, increased efficiency of already developed land and infrastructure, reduced development pressure in edge areas thereby preserving more open space, and, in some cases, strengthening rural communities.
Encourage the creation of a business improvement district.
Use priority funding areas to direct development toward existing communities.
Establish a land bank authority.
Develop asset-driven market analysis to encourage commercial and retail investment in underserved communities.
Encourage infill by adopting innovative stormwater regulations and practices.
Increase transit-oriented development by adding infill stations on existing transit lines and retrofitting existing stations.
Designate a vacant-properties coordinator to use code enforcement, provide incentives, and develop partnerships to minimize and abate vacant properties.
