Briefly describe the significance of the Growth Management Act. How has this law affected Washington?
(4 points)
The Growth Management Act (GMA) is a state law passed in Washington in 1990 with the aim of managing and guiding growth in the state while protecting natural resources and promoting sustainable development.
1. Planning and Development: The GMA requires local governments to create and update comprehensive plans that address land use, infrastructure, transportation, and housing. It encourages coordinated and long-term planning across jurisdictions, ensuring that development is thoughtful and well-managed.
2. Urban Development: The law promotes compact urban growth by focusing on infill and redevelopment, discouraging sprawl and promoting the efficient use of land and resources. This approach helps protect farmland, forests, and open spaces, while also fostering more vibrant and walkable communities.
3. Environmental Protection: The GMA emphasizes the protection of critical areas, such as wetlands, habitat areas, and aquifer recharge areas, from excessive development. It requires counties and cities to adopt regulations that safeguard these areas and ensure their long-term health.
4. Transportation and Infrastructure: The GMA encourages transportation planning that supports growth management objectives. It aims to reduce congestion, promote alternative modes of transportation, and foster linkages between land use and transportation planning. This helps create more sustainable and efficient transportation systems.
Overall, the Growth Management Act has had a significant impact on Washington by promoting responsible growth, protecting natural resources, and guiding development in a way that supports sustainability and community well-being. It has helped shape land use policies, influenced urban development patterns, and improved long-term planning and infrastructure decisions across the state.