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Hyperdevelopment in Mountain Towns: An RMB Manifesto

Chris Coleman

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Published in The Weekender Effect: Hyperdevelopment In Mountain Towns (An RMB Manifesto)

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Mountain towns are facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities due to rapid growth and development. The influx of new residents, tourists, and businesses is putting a strain on infrastructure, housing, and the environment. At the same time, mountain towns are also facing the impacts of climate change, which is exacerbating many of these challenges.

This book provides a comprehensive exploration of the challenges and opportunities facing mountain towns in the face of hyperdevelopment. It draws on the latest research and best practices to provide a roadmap for sustainable and equitable development that preserves the unique character and values of these special places.

The first chapter of the book examines the challenges facing mountain towns as a result of hyperdevelopment. These challenges include:

The Weekender Effect: Hyperdevelopment in Mountain Towns (An RMB Manifesto)

by Lawrence Millman

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	212 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	66 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Infrastructure strain: The influx of new residents and tourists is putting a strain on infrastructure, such as roads, water, and sewage systems. This can lead to congestion, pollution, and other problems.
Housing affordability: The rising cost of housing is making it difficult for many people to afford to live in mountain towns. This is a particular problem for low-income families and workers, who are essential to the local economy.
Environmental degradation: The development of new homes, businesses, and infrastructure is often accompanied by environmental degradation. This can include air pollution, water pollution, and habitat destruction.
Climate change: Climate change is exacerbating many of the challenges facing mountain towns. For example, rising temperatures are leading to more extreme weather events, such as floods, droughts, and wildfires. These events can damage infrastructure, displace residents, and harm the local economy.

Despite the challenges, hyperdevelopment also presents opportunities for mountain towns. These opportunities include:

Economic growth: The influx of new residents and tourists can lead to economic growth. This growth can create new jobs and businesses, and boost the local economy.
Cultural diversity: The arrival of new residents from diverse backgrounds can bring new ideas and perspectives to mountain towns. This can make the community more vibrant and interesting.
Environmental stewardship: Mountain towns can take advantage of the opportunities presented by hyperdevelopment to become more sustainable and environmentally friendly. This can include investing in renewable energy, promoting sustainable tourism, and protecting natural resources.

The third chapter of the book provides a roadmap for sustainable and equitable development in mountain towns. This roadmap includes the following key elements:

Planning: Mountain towns need to develop comprehensive plans that guide growth and development in a sustainable way. These plans should include goals for economic development, environmental protection, and social equity.
Infrastructure investment: Mountain towns need to invest in infrastructure to meet the needs of their growing population. This includes investments in roads, water, sewage systems, and public transportation.
Affordable housing: Mountain towns need to develop strategies to make housing more affordable for all residents. This can include zoning for affordable housing, providing financial assistance to first-time homebuyers, and promoting the development of co-housing and other alternative housing models.
Environmental protection: Mountain towns need to take steps to protect their environment from the impacts of development. This includes investing in renewable energy, promoting sustainable tourism, and protecting natural resources.
Community engagement: Mountain towns need to engage their residents in the planning and decision-making process. This includes providing opportunities for public input, forming partnerships with community groups, and encouraging civic participation.

Hyperdevelopment poses both challenges and opportunities for mountain towns. By carefully planning for growth and development, mountain towns can reap the benefits of economic growth and cultural diversity while preserving their unique character and values. This book provides a roadmap for sustainable and equitable development that will help mountain towns thrive in the years to come.

The Weekender Effect: Hyperdevelopment in Mountain Towns (An RMB Manifesto)

by Lawrence Millman

5 out of 5