A recent report from the advocacy organization Smart Growth America discusses the economic and policy costs of so-called “sprawl” development, calling these options an “opportunity” for local governments. From the report, “Building better Budgets” comes this enticement:

The evidence presented in this report suggests improved strategies for land use and development can help local governments maintain and improve their fiscal solvency. As this report shows, smart growth development can reduce costs and in many cases increase tax revenue. This combination means that in some cases smart growth development can generate more revenue than it costs to operate.

These findings are true for any rural, suburban or urban community, anywhere in the country. Local governments throughout the United States are already facing unprecedented challenges in providing high-quality infrastructure and adequate public services to their residents on a tight budget. Choosing financially responsible development patterns can help communities across the country protect their fiscal health for generations to come.

For more information, visit the Smart Growth America website, or download a copy of the full report.