 In the past 50 years, Florida has more than tripled its population due to domestic immigration fueled by availability of modern conveniences such as automobiles, air conditioning and bug spray. A place which has been historically thought of as “paradise” because of its natural beauty, biodiversity, and warm climate is rapidly being converted into commercial shopping centers, exclusive golf and county clubs, and enormous housing developments that consume large amounts of natural resources.
Providing for residential growth, fostering economic development, and protecting natural resources requires a delicate balance between the built and non-built environment.
A variety of factors such as the abundance of natural resources, the real estate market, demographics, local ordinances, and community character contribute to difficult decisions. Coastal communities need tools to help them analyze, visualize, and make the best choices about growth and development along the coast.
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