Background:
Given the rate of Long Island's build out, rapid growth and escalating real estate values, the protection of open space is an urgent matter. In addition to funding land acquisition, local government should take measures to encourage sound land use practices such as cluster subdivisions, consideration of critical environmental areas, transfer of development rights, provisions for open space and public access where feasible and collaboration among stakeholders on project design.
Solution:
- Pursue State and Federal funding to help preserve open space and farmland.
- Coordinate town and village Smart Growth plans that utilize sustainable development principles. Smart Growth initiatives are designed to limit sprawl and promote quality communities by emphasizing redevelopment, pedestrian friendliness, historic landmark preservation, and protection of open space.
- Expand funding for the Long Island Regional Planning Board
What you can do: