I realized this morning what's the problem with America's economy, as horror struck at the thought that the 'rescue plan' will only worsen the situation.
America has destroyed its engines of economic growth. Jane Jacobs eloquently explained it to us nearly sixty years ago: cities are the primary source of economic strength. But in America, we have utterly wasted most of our real cities with suburban sprawl. We have funneled resources into a wasteful infrastructure that depends on a self-devouring cycle of constant redevelopment to sustain itself.
So, what's America's plan to pull itself out of this failing economy? Roads. An 'economic expert' on the Today show this morning stated that in order for the stimulus funds to have maximum effect on the economy, a large portion of them must be spent on new infrastructure that will stimulate new development. In other words, more new roads into virgin forests and undeveloped farmland; more big box retail and strip malls; more roads, sewers, and power lines that we won't be able to afford to maintain and will strap local governments with costs that will siphon funds away from sensible development.
If we don't break this cycle now, it will only continue to suck us into oblivion.
Dante, meet President Obama.
Nathan
2 weeks ago
2 comments:
thanks for the compliment and the tip, sfauthor. i'll definitely keep that edition in mind.
I agree, Tim. I'm so disgusted with the whole bailout thing, I could scream. If I can live within my means, then so can everyone else!!
We don't need more sprawl. It's happening out here by me, too. They are building that gigantor Walmart right across the road. Even though there's a Walmart not ten minutes away (and less than five miles) in Fenton. We don't need it. We don't WANT it. I want my quiet space back.
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