How To Work With NIMBYs

One developer offers advice for his colleagues confronted with local communities opposed to any new development.

1 minute read

December 8, 2006, 12:00 PM PST

By Christian Madera @http://www.twitter.com/cpmadera

"According to a recent survey by the Center for Economic and Civic Opinion at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, 83 percent of suburban Americans say they do not want new development in their communities. Most say their communities are already overdeveloped or 'fine the way they are.' ...With this type of resistance, what is a developer to do?"

The author highlights the importance of open and honest communication between developers and community members, which can allow a collaborative process to identify and mitigate local concerns. Smart growth development principles are also suggested.

"Dealing with NIMBY neighbors means more than just reacting when residents start protesting. It means planning ahead to anticipate and avoid community opposition, and actively recruiting and mobilizing citizens in support of the project. A proactive and well-planned community outreach plan can help developers build a retail center project without traditional NIMBY opposition."

FULL STORY: Addressing NIMBY concerns

Thursday, December 7, 2006 in San Diego Daily Transcript

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