ABSTRACT
Rapid global urbanization is resulting in significant expansion of many cities. Phoenix, Arizona, USA is one of the cities coping with this problem. In just 50 years, its population grew from approximately 60,000 to over 1,300,000 (including the surrounding metropolitan area 3.5 million). As the urban area grew, natural open spaces at the historic periphery were enveloped by urban and suburban land uses. The resulting natural islands became increasingly important as open space preserves and recreational areas. Conflicts arose between various competing interests. Many other cities, including fast-growing cities of Asia and Africa, are facing similar situations and may look to recent history for solutions. Described here is a specific example of efforts by city planners and academics to reconcile the challenges faced at the natural and urban edge in metropolitan Phoenix.
