A Comparative Analysis of Smart Growth Implementation Practices

Smart Growth is a widely-used term that refers to land use practices that reinforce environmental protection, economic development, transportation options and encourage dense, walkable communities. Many in the field view smart growth as an antidote to the negative effects of urban and suburban sprawl. Smart Growth represents a significant challenge for public managers at the state and local levels. The Capstone team was asked to conduct a comparative analysis of Smart Growth initiatives. The Capstone team focused on the implementation of growth management and land use reforms in Florida, Utah and Oregon. By developing case studies for each state the Capstone team was able to outline relevant policy frameworks, and explore implementation factors. In particular, the Capstone team reviewed three dimensions of implementation: (1) goals and objectives, (2) public awareness and participation, and (3) measurement and evaluation. In addition to detailed cases, the Capstone team provided a comparative analysis highlighting the similarities and differences and strengths and weaknesses of each program, as well as a general model for understanding Smart Growth as the basis for a change management program.