Poverty in Suburbia: Are the Poor Out of Reach?

Room B, Hirsch Hall

The story of suburbs in America sweeps in much of this country’s modern history of sprawling land use and the self-segregation of affluent and middle class commuter communities. This panel will explore the current state of the suburbs and ask whether the infrastructure that supports a commuter economy is compatible with changing demographics. Who lives in the suburbs, and who speaks for them in local government? Are the children of lower income communities further disadvantaged in terms of income mobility by virtue of living in the suburbs? What problems arise when affordable housing is located in areas with poor public transportation and few job opportunities? Are poor people being pushed out of urban areas? If so, is greater urban density a more desirable policy option than bringing transportation services to the suburbs?