Changing Urban Heirarchy Could Spark A New Era Of Urban Development

"There is a dramatic shift afoot in urban fortunes, weakening the clout of the biggest cities while spreading power and influence to scores of smaller centers...the nation's urban hierarchy is flattening out...This is good news for America's cities -- and for America. For many cities in the South and Midwest, spreading the wealth could signal the dawn of an era of renewed urban development, a new cosmopolitanism and growing cultural, technological and economic influence. For the long-dominant coastal cities, it offers an opportunity to rethink their priorities and where they want to go. For the country as a whole, it means a more vibrant, heterogeneous landscape, more living choices, a livelier cultural and social panorama -- let's face it, a nation that's more vital and more fun."