Custodians of Place: Governing the Growth and Development of Cities

(Georgetown University Press)  This book provides a theoretical framework that accounts for how different types of cities arrive at decisions about residential growth and economic development. The authors explain how city governments can often insulate themselves from short-term political pressures and craft policy that builds on past growth experiences and future vision. Findings also include how conditions on the ground — local commute times, housing affordability — play an important role in determining the city’s approach toward growth and land use.  Lewis is an assistant professor of political science at Arizona State University.