Before and after: potential transformation of Hull Street, Richmond VA
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SELC’s experts are advocating smart growth policies at the state and local levels that will help make communities more desirable, sustainable, and economically competitive while reducing the cost to taxpayers to serve growth.
Smart Growth Is Smart Economics
Smarter growth alternatives emphasize well-designed, walkable communities that better integrate where we live, work, and shop—and that reduce the need to drive everywhere. These alternatives also promote redevelopment, revitalization, and infill in existing communities and guide new development to targeted areas.
The economic advantages of smart growth include:
Smart Growth Is Good for Our Health
Communities that keep sprawl in check and reduce dependence on auto travel also enjoy multiple health benefits, including cleaner air, cleaner water, and more opportunities for physical activity such as bicycling and walking. In addition, more and more localities are making it a priority to increase the availability of healthy food, to make new buildings healthier and more energy efficient, and to improve access to health care and other services.
Keeping Housing Affordable and Transportation Costs Down
The high cost of housing can push people farther out of town. But moving farther out in search of affordable housing often leads to higher transportation costs. By contrast, households at or near the center of a town or city—particularly those near transit—tend to spend far less of their income on transportation. SELC is championing policies that promote cleaner, healthier, more vibrant communities that can help keep both housing and transportation costs within reach for more people.