The Exurbanization of America and Its Planning Policy Implications

Abstract

There is considerable evidence of continued population deconcentra tion in the continental United States. It has created, among other things, a new form of development, which we call exurbanization. In this paper we suggest the magnitude of exur banization in both spatial and popu lation terms, identify many of the reasons for the locational behavior of exurban households, and present some notable planning policy impli cations. We ask our planning col leagues to comprehensively investi gate this new form of urban development. The risks to ignoring the nature, causes, consequences, and policy implications of exurbani zation are great.