The Federal Role in Curbing Sprawl

Abstract

This article contends that the federal government has a significant role to play in curbing metropolitan sprawl and promoting reinvestment in cities and older suburbs. It outlines the dominant growth trends under way in U.S. metropolitan areas (that is, the rapid decentralization of employment centers and residential areas) and discusses the implications of these trends for the economy, the environment, social welfare, and general quality of life. It also shows how a new metropolitan agenda is emerging in the states to address such issues as metropolitan governance, land use, infrastructure spending, and job access. Finally, the article calls on the presidential candidates to discuss ways in which federal action can help metropolitan areas grow differently—by providing directives and incentives for metropolitan governance, enacting policies that facilitate smart growth, and helping regions understand their challenges.