Why does a Community Need an Open Space Plan?

The Philadelphia Metropolitan Area (DVRPC's service area) is one of the most densely populated regions in the nation. One of the consequences of this distinction is the extreme development pressure that is placed on municipalities at the expense of our natural resources. As the region's population tries to escape the ills of urban living and relocated to suburban and rural communities, natural areas are lost or detrimentally impacted. Fortunately, we are beginning to appreciate the benefits and necessity of maintaining land in its natural state, preserving open space, and managing growth and development.

When a community creates and adopts an open space plan, residents, administrators, and leaders are:

• Choosing what kind of growth and development best fits the community. Growth is necessary - but what kind and where should it go? Innovative planning based on Smart Growth principles fosters distinctive, attractive communities. It also produces more choices and fair opportunities for development.
• Identifying current and future community needs. There is more potential open space in every community than is apparent. The planning process identifies needs, generates new ways of thinking, and resolves current and future conflicts. This process also clarifies the community's identity, and involves and educates the public.
• Protecting environmental resources. A community's longevity is maintained through its wildlife habitat, farmland, drinking water sources, and the foresight of its citizens. For a community to use all the protection tools at its disposal, planning is required.
• Preserving community values, quality of life, and natural and physical features. Planning - and its implementation - serves as the foundation for creative economic growth, fulfills the need for both active and passive recreation, and enhances quality of life.
• Creating more grant and funding opportunities for the community. A municipal plan that is consistent with state, regional, and other local plans can help reduce service costs and increase municipal funding opportunities through many grant programs. Additionally, A community with an Open Space Trust Fund can qualify for a Green Acres Planning Incentive Grant if it has an Open Space Plan. This doubles the match of Green Acres funding.