Smart Growth

Smart Growth is a holistic approach to community planning and development. 10 Smart Growth Principles have been established based on the findings of the Smart Growth Network, a network of non-governmental organizations. After identifying best practices, policies, and strategies and looking at experiences of communities around the country, the Smart Growth Network developed these principles to help communities get the results they want from growth and development:

  • Create a Range of Housing Opportunities and Choices
  • Create Walkable Communities
  • Encourage Community and Stakeholder Collaboration
  • Foster Distinctive, Attractive Communities With a Strong Sense of Place
  • Make Development Decisions Predictable, Fair, and Cost Effective
  • Mix Land Uses
  • Preserve Open Space, Farmland, Natural Beauty, and Critical Environmental Areas
  • Provide a Variety of Transportation Options
  • Strengthen and Direct Development Toward Existing Communities
  • Take Advantage of Compact Design

Meeting Presentation

Want to learn more about Smart Growth? View the video presentation (WMV).

Paul Beyer, Director of Smart Growth Planning at the New York State (NYS) Department of State, visited the City of Oneida for a Common Council’s special meeting presentation, “Smart Growth Planning for New York Communities,” which was held on Tuesday, April 24, 2012 in City Hall. During this presentation, Paul gives an overview of the smart growth principles, and a basic understanding of how different communities in New York are incorporating these principles into their ordinances, policies, and comprehensive plans.

Paul Beyer - Smart Growth Presentation

Planning for a Healthy Design Newsletter

Madison County Planning releases a semiannual newsletter as a resource with tools and ideas to further advance the principles of Smart Growth within our communities. It is our hope that this newsletter can facilitate communication to help our communities learn from each other.