Urban Sprawl

Prior to the 19th and 20th centuries, the idea and/or concept of urban sprawl had not existed. The term urban sprawl was generated around the second half of the 20th century due to the accelerated growth of suburban areas. Although loosely defined; by general definition urban sprawl is known as “The unplanned, uncontrolled spreading of urban development into areas adjoining the edge of a city” Still, urban sprawl has become a controversial issue raising numerous concerns due to the negative impacts it creates on a person’s health, the environment, wildlife habitat, and racial and economic disparity among several other issues. Nonetheless, because all cities are unique in design and services, each will have to establish policies and procedures regarding sprawl that fit their specific needs. Civilizing our current development tools and strategies is essential to achieving successful end results.