Strong, economically viable communities are bustling with activity and thriving businesses. However, wasteful growth at the fringe of our communities threatens this economic viability by leaving abandoned, boarded-up buildings, unused lots, and neglected, contaminated industrial properties throughout our communities. These properties are a drain on the economy – they provide little or no property tax income, lower property values in the surrounding area, create a serious threat to public safety, and tend to have increased crime.
Vacant properties and industrial properties are also an opportunity. By using smart growth principles, we can focus investments to revitalize these areas and build stronger communities.
Local communities struggle to address these areas in tightly constrained budgets, but Congress and the federal government can play a critical role in incentivizing the private sector to invest in our communities and redevelop these properties.
Smart Growth America’s Federal Policy Priorities for Revitalizing Communities
- Vacant Properties
- Community Regeneration, Sustainability, and Innovation Act of 2009
- Livable Communities Act of 2009
- Brownfield Cleanup Enhancement Act (EPA Reauthorization)
- Brownfields Waterfront Bill
- Brownfields Remediation Permanent Tax Incentive Act
