Land Use
Land Use Plan presentation, October 18, 2007 (PDF, 12.3 Mb)
Land use is at the heart of the Landscapes2 theme -- “bringing growth and preservation together in Chester County.” Where and how do we grow so that we maintain vibrant urban centers and suburban communities and protect the best of our natural, rural, and historic heritage?
Farmland, rural character and natural beauty is what people say they like best about Chester County (Landscapes2 survey, 2007). Our resources are immeasurably valuable and irreplaceable. The water and air quality is vital. The soils are among the most productive in the world. The scenery provided by our farm land, woodlands, and historic sites makes Chester County a special place.
Chester County has the highest population growth of any county in Pennsylvania. We have gained 50,000 new residents since 2000 and will have a population exceeding 500,000 by 2010. The number of jobs in the county is also growing. We are no longer a bedroom community - nearly as many people travel into Chester County to work each day as leave to work outside the county. This growth has accelerated in recent years and, due to Chester County’s location, is expected to continue.
Growth is important to maintain the quality of life we enjoy. Growth provides the means for the investment needed to maintain the properties, facilities, businesses, and services we depend on. Without investment there would be decline and decay.
The Landscapes vision for our future is: Preserve and enhance the unique character of Chester County landscapes by concentrating growth in the most appropriate areas.