The suburban sprawl has turned Atlanta into a almost endless city. Increased car dependence creates horrendous traffic, traffic creates smog, smog pollutes water, and so on. These problems keep politicians and environmental groups scratching their heads.

For all this suburbanization, Atlanta is a pretty city covered with trees and elegant old homes. The growth raised the roof on the restaurant and shopping scene, and distinct neighborhoods are like friendly small towns. Racial tensions are minimal, but segregation persists.