“Drawing on a lifetime of work and reflection on the nature of urban landscapes, and the problems associated with monopolized wealth flows from urban land, Professor Condon reveals hitherto generally unrecognized connections between the price of urban land, economic and racial inequality, and the disproportionate burden of the COVID pandemic on disenfranchised city dwellers. This book takes inspiration from Henry George, the great American economic and social philosopher, who in Progress and Poverty (1879) proposed a remedy for urban renewal that would be a key component in the fight against communicable disease. While his book focuses on the United States, it is a useful reference for policy makers with respect to the equitable and efficient use of urban lands all over the world.”
“Over this long career Patrick Condon has continuously broadened the reach of his critique of our patterns of urban development while offering solutions, which he has developed, refined and tested through his dual careers as a practicing professional and university faculty member. In this book he integrates additional aspects of social justice, disease and wealth inequality, into his concept of sustainable urban development. The problems are serious but Condon prescribes remedies that local governments can enact, if they are serious about creating a more just and sustainable city. I expect this book to become an essential reference for advocacy groups and concerned citizens as well as policy professionals.”
- Robert Liberty, Past Executive Director, 1000 Friends of Oregon
Past elected member Portland Metro Council
Chair, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Commission
“From a history of inequality and race to land policy, zoning, taxation and the pandemic in American metro areas, Professor Condon hits many important nails on the head. He clearly illuminates problems such as the financialization of real-estate, especially housing that is painfully unaffordable to too many citizens.”
- Doug Kelbaugh, FAIA FCNU, U. of Michigan Dean and Professor
Emeritus, U. of Washington Affiliate Professor
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