Abstract

This research examines how recent changes in the official measurement of urbanization in the US affects places that gain or lose metropolitan status, and places that are identified as micropolitan vs non-core based places.

Issue

Designation as a metropolitan county is thought to be associated with eligibility for numerous federal government programs, and to signify sufficient market potential to justify various types of economic investment from the private sector. Similarly, being an official nonmetropolitan county is an eligibility criterion for various programs. This research examines whether gaining or losing metroplitan status really makes a difference in places development trajectories and opportunity structures.

Response

Quantitative research has been completed that examines the process of metropolian classification, and considers whether the new categorization of nonmetropolitan counties into micropolitan vs non-core based areas is a valid mesasure of urban development. The next stage of the project will examine federal program regulations to identify programs that base eligibility partly or solely on metropolitan status, hold focus groups with county excecutives in areas that have gained or lost metropolitan status, and conduct a national survey of county executives to determine the full range of impacts associated with gaining or losing metropolitan designation.

Impact

The research has provided a reliable empirical basis for the important policy notion that rural areas are a diverse category, Accordingly, rural policies cannot treat all areas in a one size fits all manner.

Funding Sources

• Other USDA (e.g., Water Quality, Special Grants, NRI)
• Federal Formula Funds - Research (e.g., Hatch, McIntire-Stennis, Animal Health)
• ERS, cooperative agreement

Collaborators

• Economic Research Service USDA
• USDA multi State research committee

Key Personnel

• John Cromartie, ERS-USDA,