Growth management is the primary function of community planning. While, poorly managed growth and development can be a detriment to the community, well thought out and planned growth and development can provide lasting benefits such as improved recreational opportunities, more efficient servicing, local employment opportunities, environmental protection, efficient use of land and resources, and other desirable community amenities.
Growth management helps us avoid suburban sprawl, protect the environment, create more compact liveable communities, preserve natural resources, protect our ability to produce local food, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, provide cost effective services, and preserve and enhance our quality of life. Without carefully managed growth, services like transit, sewer, water, recreational programming, and health services become increasingly difficult and costly to provide. Perhaps more importantly, a sound growth management strategy can ensure that the things we love about our community are not only maintained, but are also enhanced.
Next Section: What is Sustainability?
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