Our Vision for Rhode Island
A state where all generations enjoy abundant natural and architectural beauty, a high performance economy, a dynamic connection to the past and a prosperous future.
If Grow Smart’s vision for Rhode Island is realized . . .
We will have valued, maintained and invested in our state’s diverse built and natural assets – all within our 1,000 square miles of land – that offer compact, walkable city and town centers close to working farmlands and forested areas and the incomparable resource that isNarragansett Bay. Stewarding and nurturing our assets will strengthen our economy and provide all Rhode Islanders with the opportunity to live healthy and productive lives in a state with an outstanding urban/rural balance.
Revitalized city and town centers will accommodate most of the commercial buildings and infrastructure needed by both the state’s small and large businesses. Our centers’ historic architecture and well-maintained greenways, parks and recreational areas will make them desirable places to live and visit, and a broad range of attractive, healthy and affordable housing choices will give all Rhode Islanders the chance to live close to where they work.
We will have established an efficient and integrated transportation system that enables Rhode Islanders to get to jobs, schools, services and recreational areas easily and affordably while safeguarding the environment and reducing automobile dependence.
We will have conserved our natural resources and strengthened our resource-based economic sectors – farming, fishing, forestry.
Just as we have valued and taken full advantage of our land, we will have treasuredNarragansett Bayfor its recreational and commercial uses and its beauty. By placing a high priority on stewardship and on collaborative effort, we will have accommodated commercial shipping and the fishing industry while ensuring that the Bay and its shoreline continue to provideRhode Island’s residents and visitors with a full range of recreational opportunities.
Most importantly, Rhode Islanders will have renewed pride in our state and feel empowered to continue taking the bold action necessary to tap its full potential.
