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Urban studies really begins with rural studies since America has evolved from farmland to cityscape over the past three centuries.  It was not that long ago that the government was giving farmland away; now agricultural areas around cities are being purchased by developers at staggering prices.  Over 100 of our once small towns have developed into metropolitan areas that are characterized by decaying inner cities and sprawling box-like suburbs.

In the 2003-2004 Civitas Urban Studies program, we will look at two key components of American metropolitan areas: (a) the loss of community that has accompanied expansive sprawl and (b) the disparity between the wealthy and the poor in these areas.

We will have a summer program in July, 2003 and then on-going studies throughout the 2003-2004 school year.  Activities will include numerous field trips, knowledgeable speakers, public opinion polling, simulations, and general discussions.