Chapter 8: Land Section 8.1: The City Part 2

When suburban sprawl began to take over the countryside surrounding Washington D.C., in the 1960’s, a commission was developed to build a growth plan for the region.

This plan helped county officials successfully anticipate and develop infrastructure for a population that grew dramatically over the next few decades – thus establishing themselves as leaders in land planning.

Land-use planning involves determining in advance where people will live, where they will locate their businesses, and where land will be protected for farming, wildlife, recreation, and other uses.

Other Land Use Determinations  Roads  Shopping malls  Sewers  Landfills  Electric lines

What can be done to help cities that are overwhelmed due to rapid growth before development of land- use plans?

1. Mass Transportation  Mass transit is an economical, efficient alternative to the automobile.  It is energy-efficient and reduces highway congestion.  It reduces air pollution, and the loss of land to roadways and parking lots.  It reduces suburban sprawl.

Studies have shown that decaying urban areas can be revitalized by adding mass transit, which reduces traffic congestion – making a city more livable.

2. Inner-City Renovation  Generally, these have been a combination of government grants, tax incentives, and other assistance to induce private citizens to renovate an area.  These usually work well, because private citizens tend to understand the needs of their community better than a planner who is far removed from the community.

Inner-city Renovation

3. Open Spaces  Come in many forms: parks, pools, bike/hiking trails, historical settings, gardens and agricultural areas.  They give people a place to escape the crowd and stress.  They can be used for civic activities.  Reduce carbon dioxide and other pollutants, while adding oxygen to area.  Keep city cooler.