THE PROBLEM: Common development practices — urban sprawl, cookie-cutter properties, move-in-move-out — are obviously not in the long-term interest of our cities, communities, environment, or well-being.  We’re driving too long to work.  We're geographically disconnected from town centers.  We're increasingly detached from people and any sense of pride associated with living in a culturally rich locale.  The economy is moving out with the people and the environment is abused.

How can we grow while preserving our sense of community and our own well-being?

THE SOLUTION: Smart Growth - an urban plan that concentrates growth in the city’s center.  The approach is comprehensive and long-term.  It values town-centered, pedestrian oriented, mixed- use spaces.  It promotes a healthy lifestyle and a unique sense of community.  It works to keep the economy local and preserves naturally open spaces and other environmental amenities.  A few pillars of the general plan are:

• A range of housing choices
• The ability to walk around neighborhoods and, ideally, to commercial areas
• Community collaboration in the planning process
• A sense of place through preservation of architectural heritage and cultural distinction
• Mixed land use – i.e. buildings that can be used for both commercial and residential purposes
• Compact development to provide room for green spaces or parks
• Development within the confines of existing cities or older suburbs

Just like everything else we believe in at newwalk, Smart Growth promotes healthy, lively, and innovative communities that will maximize the quality of life for generations to come.