Urban Sprawl (i) Name one city where urban sprawl has occurred - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C - 2017

Urban sprawl in Los Angeles can be attributed to several factors:

1. Population Growth: The city has experienced significant population increases, driving the demand for more housing.
2. Affordable Housing: The availability of affordable land in the outskirts has encouraged families to move away from the urban core, seeking larger homes.
3. Transportation Infrastructure: The development of an extensive highway system has made commuting from suburban areas more feasible, further promoting sprawl.
4. Economic Opportunities: The pursuit of job opportunities has led individuals to settle in areas outside the city center, contributing to urban expansion.

One effective solution to urban sprawl is the promotion of smart growth strategies. This approach encourages higher density development in urban areas, mixed-use zoning, and the improvement of public transportation options. By creating walkable neighborhoods with readily accessible amenities, smart growth aims to reduce reliance on automobiles, thereby minimizing the extensive land use associated with traditional suburban expansion.