Smart Growth
Newton County

Home Page

Welcome to Smart Growth Newton County

Who are we?
We are a coalition of citizens committed to smart growth principles and their application to Newton County and its municipalities. We believe that current development patterns, dominated by sprawl, no longer serve the best long-term interests of Newton County, its municipalities, existing suburbs, and rural communities. Though supportive of growth, we question the economic and environmental costs of abandoning or ignoring existing infrastructure in cities, towns, and other logical areas only to rebuild it farther out. We believe in growth that is town-centered and pedestrian oriented, that mixes housing, commercial, and retail uses, and that preserves open space and environmental amenities. Ultimately, we believe this approach to growth promotes quality of life and a sense of place and community.

Smart Growth Principles:

Create Range of Housing Opportunities and Choices
Create Walkable Neighborhoods
Encourage Community and Stakeholder Collaboration
Foster Distinctive, Attractive Communities with a Strong Sense of Place
Make Development Decisions Predictable, Fair and Cost Effective
Mix Land Uses
Preserve Open Space, Farmland, Natural Beauty, and Critical Environmental Areas
Provide a Variety of Transportation Choices
Strengthen and Direct Development Towards Existing Communities
Take Advantage of Compact Building Design

Learn More About Smart Growth Principles >>