Introduction: This project assesses the degree to which the municipalities of Dane County, Wisconsin, comply with a set of smart growth standards. Smart growth legislation (WIS. STAT. § 66.1001 (1999)) is relatively new to Wisconsin, dating back to only 1999, but examples from the state and the rest of the country are plentiful. This document provides Dane County municipalities with a formal, standardized assessment of how they meet the ideals of smart growth as it is practiced in its most successful forms throughout the United States.

Smart growth is defined in a variety of ways, but the term most often refers to development that is economically, environmentally, and socially sound. Smart growth helps communities plan effectively for inevitable and necessary growth while balancing these three concerns. Smart growth changes the dialogue from reactionary growth to a proactive discussion of how and where new development should be accommodated. Wisconsin law does not define smart growth and its principles; instead, it focuses on the development and implementation of local comprehensive plans that foster the following smart growth principles:

1. A mix of land uses
2. Compact building design
3. A range of housing opportunities and choices
4. Walkable neighborhoods
5. Distinctive, attractive communities with a strong sense of place
6. Preservation of open space, farmland, natural beauty, and critical environmental areas
7. Development directed towards existing communities
8. A variety of transportation choices
9. Predictable, fair, and cost effective development decisions

This project website has three main sections. Please use the links below or on the sidebar to read more about each project component and to view the products that were generated.

Project Final Report

Smart Growth Report Card

GIS Maps and Images