How does Quality Communities (QC) relate to the national Smart Growth phenomenon?
A. Smart Growth has emerged over the last several years as one of the hottest land use and development topics in the United States. Over that period of time, Smart Growth has received support from diverse organizations ranging from environmental groups to builders associations. While the Smart Growth movement has gained credibility, defining the term has become more difficult. In researching other state initiatives and interviewing national experts, the New York State Quality Communities Interagency Task Force found that smart growth is most effectively defined at the individual state and local level. There is no one-size-fits-all solution or process. Each state, region and locality has unique economic, political, social and environmental conditions. New York’s Quality Communities initiative is responsive to the diversity of our communities and therefore enhances the quality of life of all our residents. Everyone has their own ideas for desirable and sustainable economic growth, which
