American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

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In which location was the first urban growth barrier instituted?

Portland, Oregon
Los Angeles, California
Lexington and Fayette County, Kentucky
Chicago, Illinois

The correct answer is: Lexington and Fayette County, Kentucky

The first urban growth boundary was established in Portland, Oregon. This innovative land-use planning tool aimed to manage urban sprawl and encourage more sustainable development patterns by delineating a clear boundary where urban development is permitted and where it is restricted. Portland's approach to urban growth boundaries has influenced many other cities and regions seeking to control suburban expansion and preserve rural areas. The city's emphasis on compact urban development, public transportation investments, and density has become a model for smart growth strategies nationwide. While the choice for Lexington and Fayette County, Kentucky, might seem relevant to regional planning efforts, it is Portland that is historically recognized for its pioneering work in urban growth boundaries, making it a critical case study in land-use planning and management discussions.