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What is smart growth?

Smart growth is an approach to community design that connects housing, transportation, and land use to create healthy, prosperous, and resilient neighborhoods.

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Smart Growth America cultivates vibrant, sustainable communities with diverse living and transportation options, enhancing quality of life for all.

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Smart Growth America cultivates vibrant, sustainable communities with diverse living and transportation options, enhancing quality of life for all.

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Smart Growth America cultivates vibrant, sustainable communities with diverse living and transportation options, enhancing quality of life for all.

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Accessory Dwelling Units | Santa Cruz, CA

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Accessory Dwelling Units | Santa Cruz, CA

Communities must develop a layered portfolio of programs to answer the affordable housing demand. The promotion of accessory dwelling units (ADU) on private properties is one strategy gaining popularity. ADUs allow homeowners to add a small housing unit on their property, which they can rent out to earn extra income. This also increases the supply of affordable housing in the neighborhood and promotes infill development.

Unfortunately, zoning codes frequently make such structures illegal. However, many cities are now proactively legalizing and encouraging ADUs as part of their affordable housing strategy. Santa Cruz, CA is one such community. Learn about Santa Cruz CA’s model policy.