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Of First Burbs and Boom Burbs: Dealing with Suburban Transition in the 21st Century

October 10, 2006

In this presentation to officials in Plano, TX, Robert Puentes discussed the challenges and opportunities facing mature suburbs as they transition from very fast growing places on the metropolitan fringe to relatively slow growing places in the inner ring.

The presentation builds off a recent Brookings publication, One Fifth of America, A Comprehensive Guide to America’s First Suburbs. The report examines these places’ special needs and explores some of the key policy changes needed to meet them effectively. It also references a forthcoming Brookings’ book, Boomburbs: The Rise of America’s Accidental Cities, slated for release in January 2007.