Sustainable Communities
Promoting economically, socially and environmentally sound growth in the Upstate

Our Vision for the Upstate

• The Upstate is a national model for how regions can accommodate rapid population growth and change, while protecting quality of life
• The Upstate provides infrastructure and services in areas where growth is desired and appropriate
• Counties, municipalities and special purpose districts coordinate their plans for providing infrastructure and services
• Green building standards are the norm for new commercial and residential construction and renovation projects
• The Upstate is among the most progressive regions in the nation in terms of:
  • new communities being built in accordance with traditional neighborhood design principles
  • the use of a multimodal system of transportation
  • vibrant and engaging downtowns
  • the protection of the historical and cultural assets of our mill villages through adaptive reuse and revitalization
  • the redevelopment of shopping centers into live, work and play communities
  • housing is affordable for the vast majority of Upstate residents
• Trails networks and greenways connect residents to parks, greenspace, and their communities
• When people speak of the Upstate, they use terms such as “diverse,” “well planned,” “vibrant,” “healthy,” “active,” “cultured,” “progressive,” and “a great place to live”—affirming that this is a region committed to protecting and improving quality of life

Guidelines for Advocacy Work: Sustainable Communities