Smart Growth—How it Came to Be and Where It's Going

In this article about the need for Smart Growth, former SPUR President Jim Chappell provides a condensed history of smart planning and development. The topics summarized include Nippur in the Tigris-Euphrates valley 3500 years ago, Greek philosopher Hippodamus in 500 BC, military forts in 13th century England, Baron von Haussmann in mid-19th century Paris, the Supreme Court decision of Village of Euclid v. Ambler Realty Co. in 1926 upholding the legality of zoning, and other historic planning milestones. Chappell then goes on to discuss how zoning has become an impediment to smart growth. Chappell concludes by discussing the Smart Growth movement built on, among other things, the Ahwahnee Principles for Resource-Efficient Communities, and how to accomplish Smart Growth goals. For a primer or refresher on the underpinnings and future of Smart Growth, please see the source article.