Smart Growth, Dumb Choice

Joel Schwartz and Wendell Cox argue that "Smart Growth" is a dumb choice unless you want higher housing prices and increased traffic congestion.

1 minute read

August 19, 2003, 1:00 PM PDT

By Chris Steins @planetizen


"Smart growth plans pack people into high-density neighborhoods. But is that what consumers and home buyers want? Developers don't force consumers to choose "sprawl" against their will. In a dynamic and competitive housing market, developers have a tremendous incentive to find out what combination of amenities will most appeal to home buyers. If people were clamoring to live in high-rise apartments or condos, developers would build them. Right now, most people, especially those in Bakersfield and the valley, want single-family homes with a bit of land in the front and back yard."

Thanks to George Passantino

Sunday, August 10, 2003 in Reason Public Policy Institute

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