In a new study, “Estimating the Fiscal Impact of Alternative Futures for the Capital Region,” the Capital District Regional Planning Commission analyzed what the future could look like for residents of Saratoga, Rensselaer, Schenectady and Albany counties—and what it might cost them. Looking at two different population growth rates over the next 30 years, researchers compared compact growth focused in existing urban and suburban centers to sprawling growth on rural land. Resoundingly, the study showed that more dispersed growth cost more in taxpayer dollars to service with water, sewer, education and emergency services. In fact, a concentrated growth pattern in the Capital District could save the region $1 billion over the next 25 years—all the more reason to invest in and promote protection of the region’s best farmland.

For the full report, see: www.cdrpc.org.