U.S. Governors Lament Sprawl

At a recent meeting of the National Governors' Assocation, preventing sprawl has become a hot topic.

1 minute read

August 9, 2001, 5:00 AM PDT

By California 2000


At a recent meeting of the National Governors' Assocation, participants conceded that preventing sprawl has become a challenge for states nationwide, and that sprawl is no longer confined to states with large cities. The governors examined symptoms of sprawl, such as increases in commute times and endangered species listings, and discussed how many zoning laws and building codes can encourage sprawl. The governors agreed that there are no simple solutions, but they highlighted several successful "smart growth" programs implemented around the country and reaffirmed the long-term goals of controlling growth and reinvigorating cities.

Thanks to California 2000 Project

Wednesday, August 8, 2001 in The Fresno Bee

Young Professional

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 and Environmental Planner

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 and Environmental Planner

Get top-rated, practical training for planners

"Planetizen federal action tracker" logo superimposed over black and white image of US Capitol dome.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker

A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

September 23, 2026 - Zachary Whalen

Passengers board an Amtrak train under a cloudy sky.

Amtrak, CN end decades-long dispute with eight-year agreement

The new operating agreement establishes an updated framework for the companies to work together, including processes to resolve disputes.

September 18, 2026 - Mass Transit

The Gross Reservoir, a large body of water surrounded by trees and mountains.

Judges permit Denver to divert 77,000 acre feet from the Colorado River for reservoir expansion

Overuse and climate change have caused the Colorado River’s water levels to plummet.

September 18, 2026 - Inside Climate News

A person boards a SEPTA bus.

SEPTA to bring nearby frequent transit to over 1 million new riders as part of decade-long plan

The agency's Accelerate plan will also bring frequent transit to twice the amount of jobs that are currently located near it.

45 minutes ago - Mass Transit

Five people squat by a tree in NYC, helping to care for it.

NYC plants over 18,000 trees, the most new foliage in a decade

Many of the trees were planted in communities vulnerable to extreme heat.

1 hour ago - AM NY

Gov. Gavin Newsom speaking behind a podium, pointing a finger upwards. The American and California flags are behind him.

New bill requires California data center developers to create water scarcity plans

Gov. Gavin Newsom recently signed 7 bills intended to give California communities more information about the impact of proposed data centers.

2 hours ago - Smart Cities Dive