Unintended Consequences Of Greenbelt Legislation

New greenbelt purchase program approved by Ann Arbor, Michigan voters to limit sprawl may spur development in the short run as developers rush to buy developable land.

1 minute read

December 8, 2003, 10:00 AM PST

By Chris Steins @planetizen


"Land in Washtenaw Couty is becoming even more scarce and pricey with the city of Ann Arbor set to begin purchasing up to 9,000 acres to create a greenbelt of untouched property. Large developers are racing to buy up land in once-pristine Washtenaw County to build new homes, retail outlets and office projects. In some cases, farmers and other property owners are receiving unsolicited offers from developers eager to snap up choice parcels."

Thanks to Richard Layman

Monday, December 8, 2003 in The Detroit News

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