10.3 Post-war boom and suburban development

Florida's post-war boom transformed the state. Economic growth, climate appeal, and technological advancements like air conditioning drew millions. The population surge fueled suburban development, with planned communities and affordable housing reshaping the landscape.

Transportation and urban development went hand in hand. The Interstate Highway System connected cities, enabling suburban expansion and commuting. This rapid growth brought challenges, straining infrastructure and raising environmental concerns as Florida's cities sprawled outward.

Post-War Population Boom and Suburban Development

Factors of Florida's population boom

Top images from around the web for Factors of Florida's population boom

• 

  Economic Justice and Consumer Protections - Florida Poverty Law - Research Guides at Florida ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Culture of Florida - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Baby boomers - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Economic Justice and Consumer Protections - Florida Poverty Law - Research Guides at Florida ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Culture of Florida - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Factors of Florida's population boom

• 

  Economic Justice and Consumer Protections - Florida Poverty Law - Research Guides at Florida ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Culture of Florida - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Baby boomers - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Economic Justice and Consumer Protections - Florida Poverty Law - Research Guides at Florida ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Culture of Florida - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Economic growth fueled by expansion of industries (aerospace, agriculture) created increased job opportunities
• Climate appeal with warm weather year-round attracted retirees and vacationers seeking sunshine
• Technological advancements like widespread air conditioning made Florida more livable in hot summers
• Military presence expanded as establishment of bases during World War II led veterans to settle in Florida
• Tourism industry growth driven by development of attractions (Disney World) and increased leisure time
• Baby Boom increased birth rates nationwide prompting families to seek new opportunities in Florida

Growth of Florida suburban communities

• Planned communities featured large-scale residential developments incorporating amenities (golf courses, pools)
• Housing styles embraced ranch-style homes with Florida rooms and patios for outdoor living
• Affordability improved through FHA and VA loans making homeownership accessible to more families
• Demographic shifts saw middle-class families moving from urban centers seeking larger homes and yards
• New town concepts emerged as self-contained communities (Coral Gables) combining residential and commercial areas
• Environmental considerations addressed through drainage and land reclamation projects on former agricultural lands

Transportation and Urban Development

Impact of automobiles on Florida

• Interstate Highway System improved connectivity between cities facilitating tourism and commerce
• Suburban expansion enabled commuting from residential areas to urban job centers
• Urban sprawl led to decentralization of cities and increased land consumption
• Economic growth spurred new businesses along highway corridors and enhanced distribution networks
• Changes in urban design produced wide streets, expansive parking lots, and drive-through services
• Environmental impacts increased air pollution and habitat fragmentation across the state

Challenges of Florida's rapid urbanization

• Infrastructure demands strained existing utilities requiring expanded water and sewage systems
• Environmental concerns grew from loss of natural habitats (Everglades) and increased pollution
• Social changes integrated diverse populations forming new communities and cultural identities
• Economic opportunities expanded in construction, real estate, and service sector jobs
• Education and healthcare needs surged requiring new schools and hospitals with staffing challenges
• Urban planning faced balancing growth with preservation of natural areas and managing traffic congestion
• Political restructuring created new municipalities shifting local governance and representation