Regarding the Nov. 15 article on “smart sprawl,” we wish to thank Reid Ewing for his Nov. 19 guest editorial, “There is no such thing as ‘smart sprawl.’” He eloquently stated our thoughts precisely.
The Wasatch Front has unique geographic constraints similar to Seattle, Portland and other areas. These constraints, combined with complements of environmental/ecological systems, indicate a distinctive planning strategy. It is the same strategy promoted by the Wasatch Front Regional Council, UTA, several nonprofits, counties and municipalities that collaborate with the WFRC.
It is in support of village, town-center nodes connected by transit for urban planning/design efficiencies. These centers provide a mixed-use environment with a walkable public realm where residents can gather and strengthen their community bonds. Think of it as several Daybreaks or smaller Sugar House communities spaced around the region. In short, they provide a sense of place identity and more sustainable growth. Many city councils have adopted this strategy and are in various phases of implementation.
Planning theories have evolved over the last century to incorporate objectives of natural, social, economic and technological dynamics. All acknowledge that there is no single strategy that matches all circumstances. All have particular strengths and emphases. And none, to our knowledge, propose a sprawl approach to comprehensive planning theory. Urban planning is dependent on regional information and inputs to bring harmony to multiple goals and objectives. Mr. Ewing is one of the local researchers at the University of Utah, who is nationally recognized, that our region can depend on for analysis of these theories.
Tom and Debra Burdett, South Jordan