Proposed legislation would offer financial incentives to increase the population density of communities in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy use. However, the available evidence, which is admittedly limited, indicates that such “smart growth” policies are misguided, producing minimal results at great expense and disruption. Such policies would threaten to disrupt the already wobbly housing market, make housing less affordable, reduce housing quality, and substantially limit consumer choice.
Grand County Commissioners and community leaders are working on a proposal for a public lands bill they hope will be considered by Congress in the next few years.
Seasonal South Hills Road Closures in Effect
TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KLIX)-Seasonal road closures are now in effect in the South Hills for motorized use to help protect wintering deer and other wildlife.
The Bureau of Land Management announced the yearly closures will run until March 15 to prevent resource damage and help protect critical mule deer winter range and sage-grouse habitat. The closures impact the roads in the Dry Creek, Indian Springs, Cherry Creek, and North Cottonwood areas (see map ). BLM said the closures could be extended if conditions call for it. The closures only impact motorized travel in the closure areas, including electric bicycles; people can continue to hike into the areas.