Decades of sprawl in Fresno and the Central San Joaquin Valley has led to significant land consumption, outpacing population growth, and has resulted in lower-density, single-family home developments primarily in higher-income neighborhoods.  The region’s urbanized land has increased by 226 percent since 1970, outpacing its population growth of 153 percent over the same period of time.  This pattern has contributed to the disinvestment in central areas, particularly affecting communities of color.  The report suggests that restrictive zoning and homeowners’ associations have limited the development of multifamily housing, exacerbating the issue.  It also notes that state investments in infrastructure, such as the high-speed rail system, present an opportunity to promote denser, more equitable growth.  The authors advocate for policy changes to encourage infill development and reduce the negative consequences of sprawl.

https://www.urban.org/research/publication/patterns-sprawl-fresno-and-central-san-joaquin-valley