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- Info
Wrestling sprawl to the ground: Defining and measuring an elusive concept
| Author: |
Galaster, George; Hanson, Royce; Wolman, Hal [and others] |
| Date: |
2000 |
| Periodical: |
In: Fair Growth: Connecting Sprawl, Smart Growth, and Social Equity; 2000 November 1; Atlanta, GA. Washington, DC: Fannie Mae Foundation |
| Link: |
http://www.fanniemaefoundation.org/programs/papers.shtml
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| Abstract: |
The literature on urban sprawl confuses causes, consequences, and conditions. This paper presents a conceptual definition of “sprawl” based on eight distinct dimensions of land use patterns: density, continuity, concentration, compactness, centrality, nuclearity, diversity, and proximity. Sprawl is defined as a condition of land use that is represented by low values on one or more of these dimensions. Each dimension is operationally defined and tested in13 urbanized areas. Results for five dimensions are reported for each area and an initial comparison of the extent of sprawl among the 13 areas is provided. The test confirms the utility of the approach and suggests that a clearer conceptual and operational definition of sprawl can facilitate research on its causes and consequences. |
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