In New Jersey, the critical issue of “urban sprawl” has been addressed through a statewide Smart Growth initiative that recognizes the connection between development and quality of life. Utilizing Smart Growth strategies this master plan calls for new growth to transform abandoned or underutilized properties into revitalized prosperous economic centers.

The Smart Growth initiative has been created to invest time, attention, and resources into restoring communities and bringing renewed vitality to center cities and older suburbs. In New Jersey, Smart Growth is town-centered, transit- and pedestrian-oriented, and has a greater mix of housing, commercial and retail uses. It also preserves open space and many other environmental amenities. But there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution.

Successful communities have one thing in common — a vision of where they want to go and of what things they value in their communities — and their plans for development reflect these values.