Smarter Growth Arrives in Michigan
Institute celebrates progress and promising days ahead
On any journey there comes a point when you feel like you’re close
to home; a moment of clarity when the destination comes into focus, and
your pace quickens. That moment is now in Michigan for people who want better
land use planning and more careful development.
A powerful momentum is converging in communities across the state. People
from all walks of life are speaking out with newfound conviction about practical
alternatives to sprawling growth. And land use reform has become a priority
in Lansing as useful new legislation gains support from both parties.
For six years, the Michigan Land Use Institute worked statewide with citizens
and other organizations for this day. We used our communications and organizing
expertise to expose how our Main Streets empty into sprawling mega malls,
our farmland turns to pavement, and our lakes and rivers fill with polluted
runoff. We also helped define and promote a more positive future that celebrates
our priceless assets and advances smarter ways to grow.
The year 2000 was an important milestone in this journey. Across our four
program areas — curbing sprawl, promoting transportation alternatives,
protecting natural resources, and assisting grassroots groups — the
Institute’s careful research and reasoned advocacy produced results.
Last year, for example, the state scrapped wasteful proposals to extend
highways U.S.-23 and U.S.-131, and legislators proposed $25 million in new
funding for public transit. As the Detroit News proclaimed last May in a
front-page story: “The great era of interstate highway construction
in Michigan … is slowing to a crawl.” We helped make it happen.
The year 2000 was also one of transition for the Institute. In September,
I became executive director after Keith Schneider assumed the role of program
director. Keith now works with managing editor Patty Cantrell to lead our
communications program — or “activist newsroom” as they like
to call it —
into the 21st century.
As director, my goal is to build our momentum and dedicate the Institute’s
skills and resources to making sure Michigan becomes a national example
for policies that link economic development and environmental
protection.
Finally, I want to thank all of our members and funders for their essential
support. Because of you, the Institute is a vital part of Michigan’s
growing movement better land use practices and greater government accountability.
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