The policies and approaches of the public, private, and nonprofit sectors exert strong influences over the growth of cities, suburbs, and towns, including the development of housing. To date, traditional development patterns characterized by the separation of uses, limited transportation options, and suburban and ex-urban expansion have failed to adequately secure affordable housing for low-income households. Smart growth, through its regional approach to development and its goal of increasing choices in housing and transportation, can improve the quality, distribution, and supply of affordable housing.