In the almost sixty-five years since the end of World War II, governments at the federal, state, and local levels have played a major role in reducing the economic viability of cities in the United States. The 2008 election represents a possible turning point in federal policy. This article suggests that loosening restrictions on immigration, encouraging higher urban densities, reducing dependence on foreign oil, restoring infrastructure to a state of good repair, increasing the affordable housing stock, improving public safety, and reimagining new roles for Rust Belt cities should be at the top of a new agenda for urban America.
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