WASHINGTON (August 7, 2003) - A jury formed by the Smart Growth Alliance (SGA) has recognized a development proposed for Fairfax County by the Pulte Home Corporation as contributing land use, transportation and environmental advantages to Fairfax County and to the Washington region.
The SGA is a coalition of five regional organizations: the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Greater Washington Board of Trade, Coalition for Smarter Growth, Metropolitan Washington Builders’ Council and ULI Washington (a district council of the Urban Land Institute). These organizations, some of which have held opposing views on growth issues, formed the Alliance three years ago to research, identify and encourage land use, transportation and environmental policies and practices that support smart growth in the region.
The proposal recognized by the SGA is Metro West, a 53-acre transit-oriented, mixed-use development combining residential, office and retail space next to the Vienna/Fairfax-GMU Metrorail station.
The SGA jury selected the Pulte Homes project as the jury program started its second year. Through the program, the Alliance highlights “smart growth” development proposals to raise awareness among public officials, citizen groups and developers of the long-term benefits of well-designed, pedestrian-oriented projects that incorporate a variety of uses and reduce dependency on autos as the sole means of mobility.
SGA members are advised and supported by representatives of more than 70 organizations, including the public sector, universities, businesses, local foundations, and environmental and civic groups from throughout the region. The SGA views alternatives to single-use, auto-oriented design as critical in accommodating the area’s future population -- now projected to rise by 1 million over the next 20 years.
Sam Black, chairman of the SGA jury and a partner in Squire, Sanders and Dempsey, LLP in Washington, said the project fulfilled the criteria set by the SGA for measuring project proposals. The evaluation of the application was based on its location; proposed density, design and diversity of uses; transportation alternatives and opportunities; environmental resources and conservation efforts, and benefits to the overall community. “By recognizing Metro West, we are showcasing an excellent example of how to make smart growth work,” Black said. “Through smart growth, our area can reduce traffic congestion, retain a top-caliber workforce, attract new businesses, and enhance air and water quality.”
The Metro West project provides for 2,000 residential units, including owner-occupied townhouses and condominiums, plus rental units, as well as office space and a variety of neighborhood retail shops and a restaurant. Trails, sidewalks and open spaces will provide full pedestrian connections to the Metrorail station, adjacent neighborhoods and a park.
"Smart growth isn't just a buzzword at Pulte Homes - it is the foundation upon which the long-term success of Metro West must be built," said Stan Settle, Jr., Vice President of Land Acquisition for Pulte's Washington Division. "Ideally, Metro West will come to serve as an example of smart growth that can be emulated in other metro-oriented projects in our region and throughout the country.
"We're honored to have the recognition of the SGA and look forward to creating a pedestrian-friendly community that will benefit not only those who will call Metro West home, but our surrounding neighbors and all those who use the Vienna metro station on a daily basis as well."
Each quarter, the SGA evaluates project proposals in the Washington area that are under review or subject to review by local government regulatory agencies. Those representing the best examples of smart growth are publicized by the Alliance and highlighted by the Alliance during regular Alliance events. Since the recognition program began last year, the SGA jury has recognized 11 applications – six in Virginia; three in Maryland and two in the District of Columbia. The program also lent its support to the City of Falls Church for their City Center plan.
“Developers are increasingly aware that a recognition of their proposal from the SGA jury can prove very helpful as they move forward with their projects,” Black said. “Because these projects tend to be innovative and complex, obtaining approvals from the local jurisdictions is often challenging. Through the recognition program, the SGA strives to highlight the benefits these projects offer to the surrounding communities and help break down barriers in the approval process.”
In addition to the development recognition program, the SGA is planning other activities, including a recognition program for conservation initiatives.
Information on the application process is available at www.sgalliance.org; or through e-mail: sga@uli.org
