It is not always evident why economic growth takes root in one area over another. Even within a single region, some communities may outpace their neighbors in securing the economic growth that leads to an enhanced quality of life. Although some commonalities in these situations may be identifiable, many communities possess similar assets and implement apparently similar economic development plans, yet have experiences that are vastly different—perhaps even diametrically opposed. Indeed, economic growth in the United States in the late 20th century was marked by the dramatic rise of some communities and the equally stunning demise of others
