American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What key principle is highlighted in Growth Management goal 4?

1. Maximizing economic growth without concern for social equity

2. Fairly distributing the burdens and benefits of growth

3. Encouraging only private-sector development

4. Limiting all forms of urban development

The correct answer is: Fairly distributing the burdens and benefits of growth

The key principle highlighted in Growth Management goal 4 focuses on fairly distributing the burdens and benefits of growth. This principle emphasizes the importance of equity in urban planning and development processes. By ensuring that the advantages and responsibilities of growth are shared among all community members, planners promote social justice and enhance community sustainability. This approach counters the tendency for urban development to disproportionately favor certain groups while disadvantaging others, thereby fostering inclusive participation in decision-making and equitable access to resources and opportunities. This goal aligns with contemporary planning philosophies that prioritize social equity, indicating that healthy and sustainable growth should benefit a diverse range of stakeholders rather than a select few. In this way, the principle reflects a holistic view of community development, considering not just economic growth but also the social and environmental impacts, ensuring that marginalized communities do not bear a disproportionate share of the negative impacts of growth while being excluded from its benefits.