The International City/County Management Association (ICMA) and the Smart Growth Network recently stepped up for an encore: Getting to Smart Growth II: 100 More Policies for Implementation. This primer, supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, provides states and communities with mix-and-match policy options to fit local circumstances, visions, and values, and highlights steps for the private sector to encourage more livable communities.

Following the format of the first volume, the new publication provides 100 new policies, plus more examples and case studies. The 115-page book:

• Presents new policies, including some awaiting their first presentation
• Includes ways the private sector can help promote livable communities
• Discusses individual programs, including specific applications of broader ideas presented in the previous work
• Emphasizes case studies to show where the various policies, programs, and projects have been successfully implemented
• Offers “finance tips” and “practice tips” for getting smart-growth projects off the ground.

Ten smart-growth principles
The chapters follow EPA’s 10 smart-growth principles:

1. Mix land uses.
2. Take advantage of compact building design.
3. Create a range of housing opportunities and choices.
4. Create walkable communities.
5. Foster distinctive, attractive communities with a strong sense of place.
6. Preserve open space, farmland, natural beauty, and critical environmental areas.
7. Strengthen and direct development toward existing communities.
8. Provide a variety of transportation choices.
9. Make development decisions predictable, fair, and cost-effective.
10. Encourage community and stakeholder collaboration in development decisions.

—Tracy Ostroff

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