Land, water, and financial resources are limited, so making informed choices about housing density, location and diversity is critical as we build more homes for our growing population.
Over 20 years of growth, metro Atlanta has grown “out,” which moves people away from the region’s core -- where jobs, services and most community assets and attractions are located. The results include:
To solve these problems, we need to increase housing density and housing choices in selected areas. It is important to integrate decisions about land use and construction, whether commercial or residential, with those related to how our transportation system is designed and built.
The goal is to work together to create mixed-use communities that feel and function like the cherished Main Streets of our best small towns. Instead of just visiting these places, imagine walking on sidewalks lined with stores, offices, and apartments above, all within walking distance of the familiar quiet residential streets. Such communities are built at higher densities, with integrated multiple uses that make living and working more efficient, convenient, affordable and enjoyable.
The policies within ARC’s Regional Development Plan encourage local governments to take a holistic approach to community building, enabling development with more density where appropriate, protecting existing neighborhoods, and preserving open space.
Once-declining parts of the region are growing again and becoming more livable, with new parks, recreational trails, greater choices in housing types and neighborhoods, and exciting new entertainment options. Such collaboration and revitalization can come to our older corridors and town centers and we should work together to achieve it as quickly as possible.
Transportation Parks Water Density Debate