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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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About us

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

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Our work

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

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Impact

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

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Throughout the year, we host a number of in-person and virtual events covering topics related to public health, social equity, and climate resilience.

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Knowledge hub

We offer a library of case studies, videos, and reports to support policymakers, practitioners, and advocates interested in advancing smart growth.

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Resource

Transfer of Development Rights Policy Toolkit

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Transfer of Development Rights Policy Toolkit

Protecting a community’s natural assets, environmental resources and drinking water sources is critical for public health and economic well-being. However, it can seem difficult to protect these important areas without stifling growth. Transfer of development rights (TDR) is a powerful tool for protecting natural resources without restricting growth, and in fact directing it strategically to get better economic outcomes.

Smart Growth America’s Local Leaders Council developed a series of policy toolkits to guide municipal leaders who want to implement smart growth strategies in their towns, cities, and communities. The Transfer of Development Rights Policy toolkit includes a policy primer, case study, and model policy.