SMART GROWTH IN SMALL TOWNS AND RURAL COMMUNITIES

The EPA’s Smart Growth in Small Towns and Rural Communities initiative helps rural places and small towns plan for sustainable, inclusive growth while preserving their unique character. By addressing challenges like slow or uneven economic growth, housing pressures, climate impacts, and workforce shortages, the program promotes strategies that guide where development should happen, support walking and transit, protect farmland and open space, and revitalize main streets. Through technical assistance and partnerships such as Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities, Local Foods Local Places, and Recreation Economy for Rural Communities, the EPA works with local leaders to build resilience, enhance quality of life, and strengthen community assets in towns of all sizes.