Smart growth.

Over the past few decades, development trends in New England and across the country have turned toward land-consuming, resource-draining subdivisions and sprawling retail complexes. Open spaces in New England are being developed at a rate that far exceeds population growth. Far-flung residences, massive commercial complexes with expansive paved parking areas and subdivided communities of single family homes on large lots contribute to environmental degradation by straining water resources and causing New Englanders to rely more heavily on their cars.

Yet some communities, developers and legislative bodies have opted for a different development approach following smart growth principles. By focusing on downtown and transit-oriented development that includes affordable housing and encourages compact, mixed-uses, several New England communities have revitalized their city centers while limiting further rural and urban sprawl.

MAINE

Infill Development in Mid-Coast Maine

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In mid-coast Maine, projects reusing an old industrial site for housing will demonstrate ways to apply smart growth principles in smaller communities. In Wiscasset, the Point East Maritime Village will renovate an abandoned utility plant into 80 single family homes, 160 condominiums, a 239 slip Hinckley Marina and exclusive retail/fine dining maritime square with Sheepscot River waterfront access in the old Mason Station power plant (pictured here) south of the town center. Across the river in Edgecomb, the Davis Island Workforce Housing development will provide 26 units at affordable rates for working families. The development is an infill project that will use existing public utility infrastructure, alleviating development concerns frequently associated with laying new water and sewer lines. The project preserves 9.5 acres of nearby open space for residents and meets state standards for environmentally friendly buildings.

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MASSACHUSETTS

Transit-Oriented Development in Boston

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Transit-oriented development (TOD) is a critical tool in the fight against sprawl. At its best, TOD is compact, mixed-use development around public transit nodes that allows people to walk or bike to transit. Dudley Village, near the Uphams Corner commuter rail stop on the Fairmount Line, will offer 50 new affordable rental units. This infill development project--building on empty lots or lots adjacent to existing development in urban...