Those two states are among the few that have taken the offensive against sprawl. Another governor, Roy Barnes of Georgia, has proposed a regional transportation authority with the power to overrule local jurisdictions. Theoretically, it will be able to push public transit lines through Atlanta's sprawling and often gridlocked suburbs. But the same questions about clashing interests will apply there. Washington has in mind national goals like cleaner air.
States have concerns about the economic value of natural landscapes and of productive farmland.
Counties and cities often jealously guard local control over planning and zoning. More livable communities is a desirable national goal. Its realization requires exceptional levels of intergovernmental cooperation - and strong backing from individual citizens.