Don't Call It Sprawl

by William T. Bogart

In Don't Call It Sprawl, the current policy debate over urban sprawl is put into a broader analytical and historical context. The book informs people about the causes and implications of the changing metropolitan structure rather than trying to persuade them to adopt a panacea to all perceived problems. Bogart explains modern economic ideas about the structure of metropolitan areas to people interested in understanding and influencing the pattern of growth in their city. Much of the debate about sprawl has been driven by a fundamental lack of understanding of the structure, functioning, and evolution of modern metropolitan areas. The book analyzes ways in which suburbs and cities (trading places) trade goods and services with each other. This approach helps us better understand commuting decisions, housing location, business location, and the impact of public policy in such areas as downtown redevelopment and public school reform.

232 pages, Paperback

First published September 25, 2006

Reviews

[Stacie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book definitely caused me to consider my notions of sprawl in different ways. A good book for understanding the economics of our living and working spaces.

[Cleveland Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sprawl, the possibly most desired form of urban development ... but don't tell that to the policy people at coastal universities ...