Advantages of Density
In addition to meeting a growing market demand, high-density developments offer economic, environmental, and aesthetic advantages to communities within the region.  High-density developments offer more efficient provision of public services (i.e., utilities, emergency services).  High-density developments also help protect our region’s natural areas, as well as minimize the encroachment of development on farms, forests, and ecologically sensitive environments.  Creating and/or sustaining high-density areas through infill projects contributes to vital, dynamic communities where residents enjoy spending time (i.e., minimize urban decline).  New developments and revitalization projects can include desirable amenities which may not be possible or sustainable at lower densities (e.g., mixed uses, public transit).

Local jurisdictions should encourage development of sites where utility services with sufficient capacity are already in place. This reduces construction costs and environmental impacts.  Encouraging infill projects also avoids open space and environmental fragmentation, as well as potential incompatibility of uses (e.g., residences adjacent to agricultural operations).