October 7, 2004

Far-flung jobs slow integration

Study results to be released by Wayne State University tomorrow suggest that jobs dispersed over wide stretches of suburbia are slowing the metro-Detroit region's progress in breaking down segregation patterns. The four-year study is the first to trace the social costs - and benefits - of urban sprawl. Researchers found that metropolitan areas where jobs are dispersed over wide swaths made less progress easing segregation than did regions where jobs are more concentrated. "That means land use does relate to racial segregation," said George Galster, WSU professor of urban affairs. The study does not fully explain whether it is job sprawl that drives segregation or vice versa. An insert notes that conclusions of the study will be presented at 1:30 p.m. Friday in the McGregor Memorial Conference Center.

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