Principles of Smart Growth

To help Ohio build a vibrant economy, improve our quality of life and provide for the common good, Greater Ohio supports these principles:  

People. Enhance the quality of life and economic opportunity in all neighborhoods and communities.

• Ensure that new development – economic growth, tax base, jobs – benefits all communities throughout regions in Ohio
• Provide attractive neighborhoods where people can afford to live throughout all regions in Ohio
• Seek alternatives to funding schools through local property taxes
• Create safe streets for everyone’s use – pedestrians, cyclists, drivers
• Provide convenient transit and other transportation options to help people get where they need to go
• Reduce the isolation of the elderly, minorities and the poor and improve economic opportunities for all

Land. Invest in our assets.

• Revitalize existing cities and towns
• Conserve productive farmland and valuable natural areas
• Preserve historic buildings and neighborhoods
• Restore and protect clean air and water
• Provide greenspace for leisure, recreation and inspiration
• Encourage regional cooperation for intelligent use of Ohio’s land

Prosperity. Plan our land use wisely for the future .

• Modernize Ohio’s planning laws for the 21st century
• Support economic development policies that encourage growth in existing communities
• Rebuild and repair roads, bridges and other public infrastructure before building new
• Build a transportation system that provides water, rail and air alternatives to highways to move people and goods efficiently and at reasonable cost
• Involve citizens in planning for the future of their communities and regions

Greater Ohio promotes reform of state policies and incentives to achieve these goals.