City Grapples with Smart Growth Proposals

CHARLOTTE—The City Council has endorsed a smart-growth philosophy aimed at preserving undeveloped land on the outskirts while encouraging growth in older neighborhoods. But in a number of zoning cases, the council has acted against the advice of city planners and rejected projects that would have put high-density housing on vacant city lots, according to a published report.

Council members defend their actions by arguing they have to be selective in approving high-density projects. But those that support smart growth fear there are signs the council can’t stand up to neighborhood opposition, according the report. Planners are pushing for more high-density development along transit corridors.

If the council is unable to make the right decisions in the face of opposition, Charlotte will continue to spread outward, and its $1 billion-plus transit investment will be derailed, according to the report quoting Mayor Pat McCroy.