What is the Federal governments involvement in Smart Growth?
A. Federal laws, regulations, policies and spending programs have a major impact on smart growth. Historically, however, the federal government has undertaken actions that have been counterproductive to smart growth. Notable examples include highway construction programs and the location of federal facilities including post offices located away from downtown and main street areas. Nonetheless, in recent years, the federal government has begun to recognize the importance of smart growth. The federal government has taken some positive steps to address smart growth; these actions are summarized in a report entitled, National Incentives for Smart Growth Communities/The Challenge of Sprawl and the Promise of Smart Growth, by Matthew W. Ward, Esq., available from the International Municipal Lawyers Association 1110 Vermont Avenue, N.W., Suite 200, Washington, D.C. 20005, tel. no. (202) 466-5424.
