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Question 19
S.M.A.R.T.
EPA National Community Recognition Program
QUESTION 19
Background
Smart growth neighborhoods are easily accessible to local services and amenities, have limited traffic, preserve natural resources, offer places to gather and socialize, and promote walking. Creating this ideal neighborhood requires an integrative approach across nearly all sectors of the community. No two communities are identical; each has different needs. Some may be concerned about improving housing quality, others place a priority on developing a mix-use town center; and others may tackle safety and health issues, including providing effective physical activity programs for its citizens.
A coalition or task force that involves stakeholders from various community sectors can address top priorities and ensure that concerns of all sectors are voiced and that a cohesive plan is developed to meet the most pressing needs.
Getting Started
Community coalitions may include local policymakers, professionals from organizations providing relevant services, public officials, potential funders, community opinion leaders, and representatives from local businesses. A coalition can find ways of sharing resources and finding new solutions to local challenges.
Internet Resources on Planning
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Green Communities Program: A Five-Step Planning Process
International City/County Management Association
Active Living and Social Equity: Creating Healthy Communities for All Residents (24 pp, 404K, About PDF)
Nemours Health & Prevention Services
Effective Community Coalition Building (Presentation)
(18 pp, 226K, About PDF)
Case Studies & Examples of Smart Growth
Smart Growth Online
Baldwin Park Naval Base Redevelopment Project
American Institute of Architects
"Show You’re Green” Award-Winning Projects
America’s Most Livable Communities