Colorado 100 Year Plan

(Ecocities & Transit Villages)

by Logan Perkins

The Priorities Institute looks far beyond the basic principles of Smart

Growth, New Urbanism & other piece-meal proposals. We need a

long-range livability vision. The pattern of low density sprawl and

single-use zoning should end. Continuous outward growth in Denver,

Colorado Springs & elsewhere is reducing the quality of life for the

entire state. At a minimum the following lands should be preserved ,

never to be paved over:

• •Prime Agricultural Lands;
• •Wildlife Corridors and Migratory Routes;
• •Green Belts, Scenic Vistas, and Historic Lands.

To accommodate increased population:

• Create high-speed rail leading out from existing city centers to

areas with appropriate carrying capacity, especially with respect

to water availability. This is where new transit villages and

ecocities should be built to absorb new growth.

• New developments should aim to be environmentally

sustainable, economically self-reliant, and self contained with

respect to cultural and recreational needs.

• New developments should be on a human scale, with set growth

boundaries, walkability, with a variety of transportation choices

including: light rail, trolleys, smooth paths for biking and

skating, and separated walking and horse paths. Automobiles

should be parked on the outskirts of the community. Roadways within

the city would be open for delivery and service vehicles.

• New communities should incorporate renewable, non-polluting energy

sources, energy efficient designs and appliances, complete recycling facilities,

and reduced dependence on resources from outside the community.

• New communities should be equipped with fiber optic networks, including

two-way computers in every residence for on-line education, health

information, employment searches, banking, shopping, and direct

democracy.

• Xeriscaping and permaculture, organic agriculture, rooftop greenhouses,

and aquaculture should be encouraged.

• Designs should allow mixed-use zoning with a wide variety of energy

efficient architectural styles. Residents should be encouraged to work from home.

• Encourage infill in existing run-down areas of cities so long as those

displaced by gentrification are satisfactorily resettled elsewhere.

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