Northern Virginia is an economic engine and with smart investments in walkable, inclusive, transit-oriented communities, the region can continue to thrive while reducing traffic and saving open space.
That’s why we support transit communities, revitalization of aging commercial corridors, and transit investments in Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Loudoun, and Prince William.
Yet, some still push for a return to 1950s-style development and an outer beltway that will gobble-up farms and forests, and divert resources from existing transportation needs. That’s why we must also fight for reform in transportation policies at the state level and encourage smart growth policies statewide.
- Our work in the City of Alexandria >>>
- Our work in Arlington >>>
- Our work in Fairfax County >>>
- Our work in the City of Fairfax & Falls Church >>>
- Our work in Loudoun & Prince William counties >>>
Latest Happenings
RELEASE: We know we have traffic congestion. The real news is that we have more solutions to congestion than most regions of the country – and can do better.
Consumer Affairs released its ranking of the cities with the worst congestion and DC ranked #1. “These rankings routinely show DC in the top four, so it’s not news that our region has congestion. For one thing, it’s a sign of a healthy economy, and in our case, the return to office requirement,” said Stewart Schwartz, Executive Director of the Coalition for Smarter Growth.
CSG in the News: Critics press their concerns as vote on I-495 Southside Express toll lanes plan looms
July 30, 2025 | Scott McCaffrey | FFXnow “From the beginning, VDOT’s study has been fatally flawed,” said Stewart Schwartz, executive director of the Coalition for Smarter Growth. Without more analysis, there is no logical reason for the proposal to move forward, he said. “The project is not ready,” Schwartz said.
In-Person Testimony: 495 Southside Study
From the beginning the VDOT study has been fatally flawed by a conclusions-first approach – defining their purpose and need as “extending express toll lanes” which forecloses other alternatives. Moreover, they have not provided all the information necessary for an informed decision – particularly the traffic impact on connecting roads. Given the missing information and strong concerns expressed by Fairfax, Prince George’s, Alexandria, Charles, WMATA, and state legislators in Virginia and Maryland, this project is not ready for inclusion in the regional plan.
Our condolences to the family of Congressman Gerry Connolly
Photo of Gerry Connolly receiving CSG's 2009 Livable Communities Award The Coalition for Smarter Growth is deeply saddened by the passing of Congressman Gerald “Gerry” Connolly, a fighter for his community and our democracy. We extend our sincerest condolences to his wife Cathy and their family. Congressman Connolly was a
Mayor Letty Hardi’s Remarks from our 2025 Livable Communities Leadership Award Event – May 14, 2025
Livable Communities Leadership Awardee Mayor Letty Hardi Good evening everyone! First - thank you to the Coalition for Smarter Growth for this incredible honor. And to our federal workers and contractors - who have been impacted, who are worried, or who keep showing up - we stand with you. You
