Towns and Neighborhoods

Perhaps no aspect of Oregon’s planning program is more famous than our urban growth boundaries (UGBs). The crisp demarcations between what is urban and what is not have had profound impacts on both sides of the lines. Oregon’s Statewide Planning Goal 14 (Urban Development), Goal 11 (Public Facilities and Services) and Goal 2 (Land Use Planning) create the framework for managing urban growth in Oregon.

Since 1975, 1000 Friends has worked to ensure UGBs are based not on financial and political aspirations of local landowners, developers, and elected officials, but on solid data about future growth and clear principles governing where development is appropriate. We have worked in the legislature, the courtroom, the press, and the city council chamber to ensure cities develop efficiently and effectively, saving taxpayers money and protecting our resource lands.

Ensuring cities maintain and enhance the quality of life within our urban growth boundaries is at the forefront of 1000 Friends' current efforts. With your help, we can continue our efforts to keep Oregon’s communities and rural areas places we’re proud to call home.