Urban planners address the issue of urban sprawl by implementing various strategies:
1. Smart Growth: This involves creating compact communities that promote sustainable development. Smart Growth focuses on transit-oriented development, mixed-use zoning, and walkable/bikeable streets.
2. Urban Growth Boundaries: Limits on how far urban areas can expand beyond their existing boundaries. This encourages denser development within the urban core and prevents unchecked suburban expansion.
3. Development Fees: Implementing impact fees on new development within areas that require new infrastructure.
4. Zoning Regulations: Restricting large-lot zoning and promoting mixed-use zoning. This encourages compact, diverse communities and limits urban sprawl.
5. Transit-Oriented Development: Encouraging development along public transportation lines. This allows residents to live and work in close proximity to public transportation.
6. Preservation of Open Space: Creating parks, conservation areas, and greenbelts within or around urban areas. This limits development in these areas and promotes natural habitats.
7. Tax Incentives: Offering financial incentives or tax breaks to developers who construct affordable housing within urban areas.
8. Pedestrian and Bike-Friendly Streets: Developing walkable streets, bike paths, and other pedestrian-friendly infrastructure to promote alternate forms of transportation.
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