This unique program helps BC communities to prepare more sustainable neighbourhood plans – including land use, transportation, urban design, and building design plans.  Extensive follow-up ensures that the plans become reality.

SGOG is a partnership of the Design Centre for Sustainability at UBC, the Real Estate Institute of BC, and Smart Growth BC.  Together, these three organizations work with a select group of communities in BC.

Smart Growth on the Ground uses:

• guiding principles
• an inclusive process
• a design charrette
• practical research
• follow-through to get the results “on the ground”

Principles. Smart Growth on the Ground is founded on a set of principles that encourage smarter development – socially, environmentally, and economically. Learn more>>>

Process.  The SGOG process emphasizes meaningful involvement by everyone who should have a voice. The process in each community includes public input and an inclusive, collaborative “charrette” event. Learn more>>>

Charrette.  The charrette is the focal point of Smart Growth on the Ground.  A charrette is an intense design workshop during which a variety of “stakeholders” make decisions on land use, urban design, transportation and other issues.  Learn more>>>

Practical Research.  We are still learning how to build more sustainable communities, so cutting-edge research is needed to answer the hard questions.  During the charrette - as the plan is created - economic and market analysis ensures it is practical. There is also research before and after the charrette to address specific, local issues.  See more>>>

Getting it “On the Ground.”  The ultimate goal is to build real examples of sustainability. After the charrette, the SGOG team helps revise the development rules and regulations, to ensure that construction projects will match the vision.  The team can also connect the community to future research partners and funders, continue the education process, and review development applications for catalyst projects.

To date, Smart Growth on the Ground has worked with four communities:

• Maple Ridge
• Squamish
• Greater Oliver
• Prince George 

Ultimately, Smart Growth on the Ground will work with 10 communities over the next decade. This will create a set of models to inspire every BC community. Learn more>>>