The Complexity of Public Attitudes Toward Compact Development

This study examines public attitudes toward compact development. Respondents to two large-scale, randomized telephone surveys were asked to weigh four important tradeoffs between compact and sprawling growth. Using logistic regression, the authors assess which personal characteristics are associated with stated preferences regarding compact development. Results show that support for compact development is significant, in some cases exceeding support for traditional, decentralized suburban patterns. However, question wording appears to matter considerably, and individuals' beliefs about different facets of compact development are often inconsistent. Only political ideology is consistently associated with opposition to compact development although race, income, age, and the presence of children in the household are strongly associated with some views on the four tradeoffs. The findings indicate urban infill projects that take into account the needs of low income residents, renters, and minorities will help fulfill the potential of smart growth.

Language

  • English

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Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 01157651
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Files: TRIS
  • Created Date: May 30 2010 7:44AM