Abstract

This research examines spatial realignments within Georgia, pointing to the rise of a tripartite regional model consisting of declining urban cores, dynamic suburban sprouts, and stagnant rural poverty regions. Rapid growth and restructuring during the 1990s resulted in significant new patterns of development. A process of creative destruction impacted old manufacturing centers and led to a rapid rise in new high-tech sectors, without accompanying changes in historic poverty areas. Roughly dividing the state's population into corresponding thirds, these transformations portend shifts with both political and economic consequences at the dawn of the 21st century. Active intervention at the state, regional, and local levels will be needed to create a more balanced development pattern in the state in the future.

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