Briefly describe the significance of the Growth Management Act. How has this law affected Washington? (4 points) explain it simply
The Growth Management Act (GMA) is a law in Washington state that was passed in 1990 to manage the growth and development of urban areas. Here are 4 points to explain its significance and impact:
1. Planning and control: The GMA requires local governments to create comprehensive plans to guide growth and development, ensuring that it is done in a way that considers economic, social, and environmental factors. It allows communities to have better control over their own growth and helps prevent haphazard urban sprawl.
2. Protecting natural resources: The law focuses on protecting Washington's natural resources, such as forests, farmlands, and water bodies, by directing development towards already-developed urban areas instead of encroaching on valuable natural landscapes. This helps preserve the state's scenic beauty, wildlife habitats, and agricultural lands.
3. Promoting affordability and housing options: The GMA seeks to make housing more affordable and diverse by encouraging the development of a range of housing options, including affordable housing units. It aims to prevent the exclusion of lower-income individuals and families from urban areas due to rising costs.
4. Transportation and infrastructure planning: The law emphasizes the need for transportation planning to accompany development, aiming to reduce congestion and encourage alternative modes of transportation like public transit, pedestrian-friendly streets, and bike lanes. It requires coordination between land-use planning and transportation infrastructure, ensuring that new development is adequately supported by transportation systems.
Overall, the Growth Management Act has helped shape Washington's cities and towns in a more sustainable and controlled manner, preserving natural resources, promoting housing affordability, and encouraging efficient transportation and infrastructure planning.