Making the Urban-Rural Connection
The mission of the United Growth Coalition is to serve as a sustainable, citizen-based organization that unites people and organizations around the promotion of positive land use in Kent County and West Michigan.
United Growth is directed by a Coalition of rural and urban citizens. Members of the committees represent the residents, landowners, businesses and organizations within Kent County.
The Rural Component educates landowners and township officials on the costs of low density development and the benefits of compact design. This information helps empower rural communities to make informed land use decisions. MSU Land Use educator Kendra Wills provides educational programs, information and materials to these groups.
The Urban Component assists central city neighborhoods in improving the social and economic vitality of neighborhoods in identifying and mitigating the affects of urban sprawl and underutilized infrastructure. MSU Community and Economic educator Carol Townsend provides educational programs, information and materials to these groups.
United Growth Land Use Principles
- Vibrant cities and a strong agricultural community are essential for both making our region an attractive place to live and ensuring its economic strength.
- Racial, ethnic, economic, age and other forms of diversity are integral to community life.
- A strong connection exists between rural and suburban growth and urban decline. These areas must join interests to impact collective problems.
- Profitability in farming is essential for the preservation of agricultural land. Farmers must be provided with economic enhancement tools and the freedom to use them in order to gain more income from their land, thus limiting the conversion of farmland.
- Strong, mutually supportive connections between neighborhoods and the larger economic, political, and social systems must be encouraged.
- Broad and informed public input and regional leadership are essential for sound community planning and development. Planners and elected/appointed officials must make it a priority to provide all citizens access to planning and decision-making processes.
- Form follows function: the design of the physical infrastructure should assist in achieving the formation of human connections and incorporate good design, land conservation and aesthetics to promote acceptable density levels.
- Governmental units should encourage development where infrastructure already exists.
- Communities must integrate a variety of housing choices in planned and established developments/neighborhoods.
- Communities should incorporate pedestrian, non-motorized, and public transportation options into existing and future development.
- The quality of public school systems greatly influences residency decisions. Strong schools are needed throughout our region.