Core Issues
As New Jersey looks to the future, PlanSmart NJ presents a clear vision for comprehensive sustainability and stability for the state’s economy, environment, and communities. The impacts of aging infrastructure, inefficient land use patterns, loss of environmentally sensitive land, disinvestment in urban areas and inner ring suburbs as well as global economic shifts are taking their toll on statewide prosperity.
A regional approach to land use decisions can turn these trends around – resulting in compact livable communities, an attractive climate for business investment, well-maintained infrastructure, a state-of-the-art public transit system, and a range of housing opportunities located near jobs.
The chart below illustrates the components of New Jersey’s land use system and the linkages between them. Here we set forth New Jersey’s key challenges and opportunities: economic development, the environment, transportation, and regional equity.
PlanSmart NJ is well positioned to address these challenges and work towards comprehensive reform.
