Publication Date

Summer 2004

Degree Type

Master's Project

Degree Name

Master of Urban Planning (MUP)

Department

Urban and Regional Planning

Abstract

This report discusses smart growth principles in the development of two urban neighborhoods in San Jose. The focus of the report is to address the question of whether or not the principles have improved the quality of life in each of the neighborhoods. The report starts with definition of quality of life and smart growth, a profile of the neighborhoods, the smart growth principles used for the development and or revitalization of the neighborhoods and the physical, economic and demographic characteristics of the neighborhoods. An evaluation of these characteristics will be completed and conclusions drawn in order to determine whether smart grovrth has played a role in improving the quality of life of the neighborhoods. Recommendations are then made towards the further improvement of the neighborhood quality of life for each neighborhood.

An important purpose of the urban planning profession is to ensure a high quality of life for people in neighborhoods, cities, counties and regions. This is demonstrated in the different aspects of urban planning addressed through physical planning, policy planning, economic planning and growth management tools such as smart growth, sustainable development, and transit-oriented development policies. Smart growth has become an important and much discussed planning tool for growth management, as well as for the creation of lively and livable communities that contribute to an improved quality of life. By now, the question that comes to mind is, “What is smart growth?” and or “How does one determine the degree of a neighborhood’s quality of life?”

Download

Share

COinS