Can 'Boomburbs' Evolve Into Walkable Communities?

A recent study by the Fannie Mae Foundation examines the "boomburb" phenomenon and finds that these giant suburbs are uniquely positioned to become walkable communities with downtown centers.

1 minute read

July 16, 2001, 6:00 AM PDT

By California 2000


The study identifies 53 "boomburbs" suburbs with over 100,000 residents nationwide. Almost half are in California. Though most boomburbs tend to contribute to sprawl, the study finds dense developments emerging, and, within this development, a chance for walkable, vibrant downtowns. With the supply of buildable land decreasing in many part of the U.S., suburban areas are more likely to assume urban qualities, the report concludes.

Thanks to California 2000 Project

Sunday, July 15, 2001 in Fannie Mae Foundation

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I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

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