Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In

As livable streets advocates work to make headway in breaking the cycle of American auto dependence, the folks at Planetizen have put together a video narrative that explains how we got here. "The Story of Sprawl," a double DVD set produced by Managing Editor Tim Halbur, is a compilation of historical films dating from 1939 to 1965, documenting the confluence of factors that fostered the quintessential land use motif of the 20th century: far-flung, low-density, driving-intensive residential and commercial development. The discs include commentary from planning notables including Andrés Duany, Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk, John Norquist, Neal Peirce, James Howard Kunstler and Robert Cervero, featured in the clip above.

"The Story of Sprawl" is available now. Check the Planetizen promo page for more clips and ordering info.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

Mamdani ‘Fully Confident’ in DOT Commissioner Despite Daylighting U-Turn

Mamdani declined to to follow through on his campaign pledge to "push back" on DOT's anti-daylighting position.

March 6, 2026

HungryPanda Pressured Delivery Workers in Dangerous Blizzard, Workers Say

A delivery worker with HungryPanda recounted a harrowing experience of working during last month's historic blizzard.

March 6, 2026

Make Biking Great Again: Conservatives Should Embrace The Right Wing Values Of Cycling

Cycling remains aligned in the national mind with progressive causes — but conservatives can find plenty to love about bikes.

March 6, 2026

Friday’s Headlines: NYPD Placard Chaos Edition

It was been a rough day for New York's Finest. Plus more news.

March 6, 2026

Hit-And-Run Driver Kills 4-Year-Old On Dangerous Brooklyn Corridor

The driver didn't stop while a child lost his life.

March 5, 2026

Mamdani Deputy Mayor On Charging For Street Parking: ‘It’s Not a No’

Dean Fuleihan said on Thursday that the city is discussing charging fees for currently free on-street parking.

March 5, 2026
See all posts