Land use and transportation are inseparable, and coordinating them effectively is critical for creating vibrant, resilient, and economically prosperous communities. In 2024, Smart Growth America’s Center of Excellence, hosted with support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), brought together mayors, city council members, and local staff in a series of six virtual sessions to explore these intersections. Participants heard from national experts, shared challenges and successes from their communities, and engaged in discussions that highlighted strategies for collaboration, community engagement, and smart growth.

This resource provides practical guidance for decision-makers seeking to align policies, plans, and projects across departments, including activating public spaces, assessing economic benefits of smart growth, and engaging communities to understand their real-world priorities. By treating land use and transportation holistically, cities and towns can foster stronger collaboration, improve safety and accessibility, and enhance quality of life for all residents.