ABSTRACT
This chapter gives an overview of the nexus between growth management and economic development in the Florida planning process is provided. It outlines the data and methodology used to assess the impact of the 1985 Growth Management Act (GMA) on the economies of the state and its largest cities. Through an analysis of changes in economic indicators, this chapter assesses the impact of Florida's growth management approach on economic development outcomes in the state. While the GMA was passed in 1985, it is important to recognize that most local governments did not implement this legislative mandate until the late 1980s, at the earliest. Department of Community Affairs (DCA) was tasked with reviewing and ultimately approving comprehensive plans produced by local governments. By 1990 Florida was by most indicators an economically healthy state, with growth rates the envy of most states. During the 1990s Tampa experienced positive change along all indicators.
