Development and growth of industrial clusters in large cities: Impact and benefits

Summary: The paper will analyze the growth and development of industrial clusters and superclusters in large urban areas as well as the economic performance of industries that make up these clusters. It will identify these groups or agglomeration of closely related and complementary industries as well as the synergies that these clusters promote. As a direct impact of the development of such clusters, we will look at the economic impact on the areas and neighborhoods of the cities in which these clusters develop and grow. We will analyze the costs and benefits of such growth, by providing a mapping survey that point to the increase in well being in growth neighborhoods of these urban areas. We will also analyze the economic costs of such high rates of growth in these neighborhoods.

Objectives: We will analyze the growth of neighborhoods particularly in the business districts of some North American cities. Cities covered include Chicago, New York, San Francisco, and Toronto. The industrial clusters that form the business districts of these cities are analyzed for their growth trends. As a result of the growth of these clusters we see a rise in housing stock as well as a sharp increase in the prices of houses/condominiums both for rental and purchase. We will also analyze the growth in income and spending capacity of individuals living in these areas over time.

Data/Methods: Data is collected from Census Data, Department of Commerce data as well as specialized Bureau of Economic Analysis data. Mapping software using the Simply Analytics Mapping site is used to provide a visual exposition of economic growth in these areas.

Expected Results: We expect to pinpoint high growth areas in selected large cities, and provide information and future strategy that can be effectively implemented by urban planners to provide for a more equitable and sustainable growth.