Is Urban Growth Destroying Washington? What Clark County’s Comprehensive Plan Really Means for You

What Is the Urban Growth Area (UGA)?

If you’re moving to Vancouver, WA, or anywhere in Clark County, you’ve probably heard the term Urban Growth Area (UGA). Simply put, a UGA is an invisible boundary drawn around a city to guide where development can—and cannot—happen.

• Inside the UGA: neighborhoods, schools, roads, and infrastructure

• Outside the UGA: rural lands meant to protect farms, forests, and open space

The goal sounds straightforward: prevent urban sprawl while promoting smart growth. But as Clark County’s population grows, the debate over UGA expansion has intensified. Cities like Vancouver, Camas, and Battle Ground are petitioning to expand boundaries to accommodate new housing, businesses, and roads.

What Is Clark County’s Comprehensive Plan?

Think of the Comprehensive Plan as a 20-year playbook. It’s a legal document that outlines where people live, where businesses go, and how schools, parks, and roads will grow.

Every county in Washington must update its plan — and Clark County’s update is underway now, with adoption expected in 2025–2026.

This update will shape:

• Future zoning and development boundaries

• Road and school infrastructure

• Environmental protection and farmland preservation

• Long-term housing supply and affordability

It’s a massive balancing act between growth, affordability, and maintaining our region’s natural beauty.

The Debate: Growth vs. Preservation

Depending on who you ask, urban growth is either saving or destroying the Washington we love.

Pros of Expanding the UGA:
✅ More housing options for new residents
✅ Local job and business opportunities
✅ Better planning for parks, roads, and schools

Cons of Expansion:
❌ Loss of farmland and open space
❌ Strain on local roads, schools, and infrastructure
❌ Rising property taxes and cost of living
❌ Erosion of small-town charm

Many locals, myself included, see both sides. We need homes — but we also need to preserve what makes Clark County special.

A Real Example: The 75-Acre Debate

Not far from my home, there’s a 75-acre parcel once owned by a longtime local family. It was purchased 21 years ago by a developer under a “farm deferral” program.

Now that the deferral has expired, that same developer is petitioning to move the land into the UGA — a move that could allow 500–600 new homes to be built.

Here’s the issue:

• The Hockinson School District recently failed to pass an $81 million bond for a new elementary school.

• Many schools already rely on portable classrooms.

• This single development could add 600–700 new students without new facilities to serve them.

So yes, we need housing — but at what cost to our community infrastructure and farmland?

Why Farmland Still Matters in Clark County

As a Realtor and small farmer, I’ve seen firsthand the economic and social value of agriculture. According to Friends of Clark County:

For every 1% increase in local spending on farm products, the local economy retains an additional $5 million.

Losing farmland means losing:

• Local food access

• Sustainability and economic resilience

• The character and identity of Southwest Washington

Preserving farmland is about more than scenery—it’s about the future of our community.

What This Means If You’re Moving to Clark County

If you’re relocating to Vancouver, WA or anywhere in Clark County, here’s what to know:

• Expect change. Growth is happening fast — and neighborhoods are evolving.
• Ask questions. Before buying, find out if your home is near a proposed UGA expansion or zoning change.
• Think long-term. Property values can shift with new development.
• Stay involved. Public comment periods and community input are shaping Clark County’s future right now.

Growth brings opportunity — but also responsibility.

Final Thoughts

Urban growth in Clark County isn’t destroying Washington—it’s reshaping it. Cities like Vancouver, Camas, and Battle Ground are evolving rapidly, bringing new housing, businesses, and infrastructure, but also raising challenges for farmland preservation, schools, and local roads.

I’ve seen firsthand how growth can create opportunity while also putting pressure on the community we love. The key is staying informed: understanding UGA boundaries, monitoring updates to the Clark County Comprehensive Plan, and actively participating in public input can help ensure growth benefits residents without compromising the character of Southwest Washington.

Whether you’re relocating here or already call Vancouver, WA home, your awareness and involvement can shape the future of our neighborhoods, protect farmland, and support a balanced, sustainable approach to growth. Urban expansion is happening—but with thoughtful planning and community engagement, Clark County can grow smarter, not just bigger.

👉 Join my newsletter today and never miss a beat! Just enter your email below and get exclusive access to all things Southwest Washington. Let’s stay connected!