Growth Presents Challenges To Communities, Planners

"But as the US population continues to surge -- researchers predict another 100 million people will arrive within 37 years -- handling residential growth and conservation of resources could become a more pressing national priority, particularly as increasing energy consumption intersects with tighter supplies of fuel and water."

"The booming city [of Plano, TX] provides important lessons on how communities can handle such massive numbers of newcomers. It has combined planning and revitalization of existing areas with smart growth, a development strategy that promotes the use of public transportation and fuel conservation."