What is sprawl?

Anthony Downs of the Brookings Institution lists ten characteristics that define sprawl development patterns:

• Predominance of low-density residential and commercial settlements, especially in new growth areas.
• Unlimited outward extension of new developments.
• Leapfrog projects jumping beyond established settlements.
• Single-use development that separates shopping, working and residential activities.
• Low-density, single-use work places and strip retail development typically located at the periphery of metropolitan areas.
• Reliance on auto transportation for virtually all trips.
• Fiscal disparities among localities.
• Lack of adequate housing choices located close to work opportunities, thus forcing long commutes.
• Reliance mainly on trickle-down to provide housing to low-income households.
• Fragmented land use decisions by local governments.

What is smart growth?

The Smart Growth Network, a national organization of diverse partners coordinated by U.S. EPA, has defined the following principles to help define "smart growth:"

• Mix land uses (housing, shopping, workplaces, civic uses).
• Take advantage of compact building design.
• Create a range of housing opportunities and choices.
• Create walkable neighborhoods.
• Foster distinctive, attractive communities with a strong sense of place.
• Preserve open space, farmland, natural beauty, and critical environmental areas.
• Strengthen and direct development towards existing communities.
• Provide a variety of transportation choices.
• Make development decisions predictable, fair, and cost-effective.
• Encourage community and stakeholder collaboration in development decisions.

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Cuyahoga Bioregion
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Copyright 2002-2003

Where are we now?
What is sprawl? smart growth?
Race and regionalism

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