The following principles are generally accepted sustainable development practices for new communities in the United States and have been reflected in the scenario development process for Superstition Vistas. More information about these principles can be found in the Scenario Report [PDF, 9MB].
1. Balancing Priorities Achieves Sustainability
Planning for a sustainable Superstition Vistas requires that we strike a balance among economic, environmental and community goals. We need to balance all three areas without favoring one at the expense of another.
2. Transportation Systems Drive Vitality
One way to reduce our dependence on cars is to develop mixed-use centers that group destinations. Other transportation strategies aimed at reducing energy use and carbon emissions include:
- greening the transit and public vehicle fleet;
- developing incentives to green private fleets;
- planning for leading edge electric vehicle infrastructure;
- and planning for rail in the long term that will ensure regional connectivity.
3. Economic Strategy Thrives with Jobs
Starting Superstition Vistas development with jobs, instead of housing, can allow the community to grow in a more sustainable pattern. To jump-start the local economy, up-front public investment and partnerships with the private sector will be necessary to attract economic catalysts, such as new infrastructure or a research university.
4. Housing Choices Serve Different Needs
Superstition Vistas needs to provide a broad mix of housing options that appeal to a wide range of needs, ages and incomes. These housing choices must offer residents both urban conveniences, access to open space, and opportunities for rural living, with options ranging from apartments to single family homes and horse properties.
5. Increasing Building and Transportation Efficiency Saves Energy
The best development approach is design Superstition Vistas to increase water and energy conservation, to create district-wide energy development and cooling strategies, and to foster neighborhoods around transit and mixed-used centers. In addition, Superstition vistas should aim to set aside land for renewable energy development.
6. Minimaze Water Use
Water is a scarce and valuable resource in the Superstition Vistas area. In order to thrive as a new community, Superstition Vistas will need to implement leading edge systems to minimize water use. Strategies could include district-level strategies to promote high-efficiency indoor plumbing fixtures, native vegetation that requires little water, and water reuse programs for graywater and rainwater.
7. Superstition Vistas Interacts with Region
Looking to Arizona’s future, Superstition Vistas will play a central role in sustainable development of the Phoenix-Tucson “Sun Corridor” megaregion. This 21st century community needs to be connected by road and transit to the broader region – or risk becoming a cul-de-sac at the eastern edge of Phoenix.
