It is the policy of the Congress and the purpose of this chapter to provide for the development of a national urban policy and to encourage the rational, orderly, efficient, and economic growth, development, and redevelopment of our States, metropolitan areas, cities, counties, towns, and communities in predominantly rural areas which demonstrate a special potential for accelerated growth; to encourage the prudent use and conservation of energy and our natural resources; and to encourage and support development which will assure our communities and their residents of adequate tax bases, community services, job opportunities, and good housing in well-balanced neighborhoods in socially, economically, and physically attractive living environments.
42 U.S. Code § 4501 - Congressional statement of purpose
This chapter, referred to in text, was in the original “this title”, meaning title VII of Pub. L. 91–609, Dec. 31, 1970, 84 Stat. 1791, known as the Urban Growth and New Community Development Act of 1970, which enacted this chapter, amended sections 1453, 1460, and 1492 of this title, sections 371 and 1464 of Title 12, Banks and Banking, and section 461 of former Title 40, Public Buildings, Property, and Works, and enacted provisions set out as notes under sections 1453 and 4501 of this title. For complete classification of title VII to the Code, see Short Title note set out below and Tables.
1977—Pub. L. 95–128 substituted “national urban policy” for “national urban growth policy”, encouraged prudent use and conservation of energy, and provided for the assurance of the residents of the communities, and of good housing.
Section 701(a) of title VII of Pub. L. 91–609, as amended by Pub. L. 95–128, title VI, § 601(a)(1), Oct. 12, 1977, 91 Stat. 1142, provided that: