In 1995 Bank of America issued a famous report on sprawl…
““In 1995 Bank of America issued a famous report on sprawl in California. The bank pronounced: 'Urban job centers have decentralized to the suburbs. New housing tracts have moved even deeper into agriculturally and environmentally sensitive areas. Private auto use continues to rise. This acceleration of sprawl has surfaced enormous social, environmental, and economic costs, which until now have been hidden, ignored, or quietly borne by society.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote highlights how suburban decentralization of jobs and housing expands into sensitive areas, increasing car dependence and hidden social, environmental, and economic costs.
In simple terms: Sprawl spreads jobs and homes to suburbs, raising car use and hidden costs.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and address hidden costs of sprawl.
Themes
urban planning
environmental impact
social equity
transportation
economic sustainability
Mood
concerned
analytical
optimistic
Type
analytical
policy
environmental
When to use this quote
- city planning meetings
- policy development
- community advocacy
- environmental impact assessments
Key Concepts
sprawl externalities
suburbanization
car dependence
environmental justice
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance growth with environmental protection?
- What policies can reduce car dependence?
A Different Perspective
Sprawl can also bring economic growth and housing affordability for some groups.