Atlanta is nation's fourth most sprawling metro area

WASHINGTON - People flocked inland from Pacific coastal communities to more affordable homes in the Riverside-San Bernardino area of southern California over the past two decades, and businesses followed. <br> <br> That growth propelled the Riverside-San Bernardino metropolitan area to become the most sprawling metro region in the country, according to a study released Thursday by Smart Growth America. The group promotes the protection of open space, neighborhood revitalization, affordable housing and more transportation options. <br> <br> The next two areas on the list are both in North Carolina: Greensboro-Winston Salem-High Point and Raleigh-Durham. Another southern metropolis -- Atlanta -- is the hub of the fourth most sprawling area. <br> <br> The only northeastern area in the top ten of Smart Growth&#39;s rankings is the Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk-Danbury area of Connecticut, home to many suburban commuters to New York City. <br> <br> The report said more sprawling metro areas tend to have more fatal traffic accidents and worse pollution, in large part because of an increased reliance on cars to get to work and do errands. People drive more miles and mass transit options are often limited. <br> <br> The report ranked areas by population and housing density; the mix of homes, jobs and services; the availability and use of town centers or downtowns; and the street network.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2002/10/188782