Which organization developed guidelines to assist urban areas in assessing the impacts of development actions?

The organization that developed guidelines to assist urban areas in assessing the impacts of development actions is indeed Housing and Urban Development, commonly referred to as HUD. HUD plays a crucial role in the area of urban development and planning, providing resources, data, and guidance to help municipalities navigate the complexities of growth and development.

The guidelines provided by HUD are designed to address various aspects of urban development, including housing policies, community development, and environmental impacts. These guidelines help urban planners and local governments evaluate the potential effects of development projects on communities, ensuring that growth is both sustainable and beneficial for residents.

In contrast, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) primarily focuses on environmental review processes for federal projects rather than providing specific urban planning guidelines. The Council on Environmental Quality advises the President on environmental policies and also oversees the implementation of NEPA but does not create direct guidelines for urban development impacts. The Overseas Development Council, while involved in international development issues, is less relevant in the context of urban development within domestic settings. Thus, HUD's specific focus on urban development makes it the correct choice for this question.