The State Plan establishes a framework for development and conservation in both natural and developed areas across New Jersey. This framework is dynamic and continually evolves to meet the needs of the public.

Successful implementation of the State Plan will pave the way for sustainable prosperity in New Jersey through coordinated land use policies, the implementation of smart growth initiatives, enhanced climate change resilience, and the effective protection and preservation of our valuable natural resources and sensitive landscapes.

Successful implementation of the State Plan necessitates a critical reevaluation of past policy and planning decisions that have shaped the natural and built environments and identify areas where more modern interventions, guidance, and investment can yield significant benefits.

Diversity and Density
New Jersey is renowned for its remarkable diversity and high population density. Rather than viewing these characteristics as challenges, we should embrace them as strengths. Our policies and programs must celebrate and leverage this diversity and density to create vibrant, equitable, and sustainable communities for all.

Decision Making
All levels of government have responsibility for implementing effective land use policies that yield both immediate and long-term benefits for residents. Nearly every decision made by elected officials has significant land use implications that directly impact the quality of life in our communities.

Finding Balance
The State Plan provides a clear framework for effective land use planning by outlining balanced goals, strategies, and priorities among government agencies and fostering effective collaboration and cohesion. While achieving these goals necessitates difficult choices, the State Plan prioritizes a comprehensive approach that promotes prosperity, equality, and resilience for all New Jersey residents.

This clear framework allows county and municipal governments to more effectively implement policies that align with goals, strategies, and policies in the State Plan.

A Roadmap for State, County, and Municipal Governments
The State Plan empowers counties by providing comprehensive guidance for effective land use planning and decision-making. This streamlined approach, developed with input from various state agencies, offers counties a valuable blueprint that they can confidently utilize.

• The State Plan enables counties to more effectively focus on long-term planning and implementation and managing their daily operations, by outlining balanced goals, strategies, and priorities. Moreover, successful implementation of the State Plan equips counties with the tools to assist municipalities in practicing sound planning principles, enhance public understanding of community planning processes, conduct effective public outreach programs, protect the environment, and make informed and responsible land use decisions.
• Local planning and zoning board members must receive comprehensive education and technical assistance to effectively achieve the goals of the State Plan and adequately protect and develop New Jersey's lands responsibly for future generations.
• A successful State Plan implementation hinges on the modernization of New Jersey's land use laws, including the Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL), the Local Redevelopment and Housing Law (LRHL), and the County Planning Act, which requires effective convening and collaboration efforts between all relevant state agencies. A focus on quality and consistent municipal, county, and regional planning is critical to the success of the State Plan.
  
  Effective land use planning with strong State leadership and continued work with the Special Resource Areas, Watershed Planning, Metropolitan Planning Organizations, and other regional entities will have positive impacts on the prosperity and quality of life in New Jersey.

State, county, and municipal governments can evaluate local planning decisions by utilizing the goals, strategies, and policies in the State Plan. A successful implementation of the State Plan will serve as the standard by which other states are measured.