Date of Award
2012
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Communication
Department
Business
First Advisor
Michael Castro
Abstract
This thesis will focus on the potential for rail oriented development in the greater St Louis area, and methods to communicate that potential.
From many means of analysis, there is a serious problem with the "modern suburb" form of development. Whether in regards to the suburbs' long-term infrastructure costs, their social and psychological dysfunctions, the diminished resources they depend upon or the new, different tastes for housing, our region needs to find a new model.
The current type of growth has been in effect for over sixty years; only in the last fifteen has it drawn much criticism. Many have claimed that this type of growth is simply the result of market demand. Others recognize that our suburban transportation/housing mix is the result of collusion between government and industry.
The purpose of this present study is to address the opposition that arises when rail oriented growth is proposed. Auto-centric policies that have dominated America for decades won't be released easily. Some have even come to equate the isolation of suburban lives as the liberty intended by our nation's forefathers.
Perspective was gained for this study by an analysis of St Louis' historical growth, and by an analysis of peer cities with rail oriented growth. Social commentators have had a lot to say about our nation's choices for growth. Now, also, so do a rising demographic in today's society. There are many facets of bringing rail oriented development to the region which were considered. With feedback from officials, the plan was refined. Responses to the plan also reflected on the effectiveness of its communication.
The result of the project (Chapter Four) shows that there is an excellent opportunity for St Charles County to use existing rails for rail oriented growth. An informative brochure proposing such a retrofit of this walkable lifestyle was prepared as a basis for further discussion. It would be a long, hard process, but one that is worth it - and for many reasons, imperative.
Recommended Citation
Sisk, Andrew G., "The Reintroduction of Rail-Oriented Communities in the St. Louis Region" (2012). Theses. 1327.
https://digitalcommons.lindenwood.edu/theses/1327
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