Talk:Interstate-85

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This region is NOT a megalopolis. The definition of a megalopolis is a group of contiguous, densely populated metropolitan areas that combine to form a large urban complex. The region from Boston, Massachusetts to Washington, D.C. fits this definition as it is very densely populated most of the way down. However, south of D.C., the population density rapidly goes down (albeit is growing). Some would argue that Richmond, Virginia might be added to this northern "megalopolis" in the near future, but the rapidly expanding population of northern Virginia hasn't quite gotten that far yet. South of Richmond, which is where I-85 begins, is largely open rural space in between several major metropolitan areas. It is most definitely NOT a contiguous collection of densely populated metro areas.

Historically, the only time this term has been used to describe regions of the United States is by Jean Gottman in 1957, to describe the huge urban area along the eastern seaboard of the United States from Boston to Washington, D.C. According to Gottman, it resulted from changes in work and social habits. Dr. Cash 13:53, 19 August 2005 (UTC)[reply]

Agreed--Calling the area between Chattanooga, TN and Atlanta, GA a megalopolis is absurd. If a megalopolis is defined as two cities within two hours of each other, then most of the entire eastern seaboard would be part of some megalopolis. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 69.134.95.15 (talk) 03:14, 15 August 2009 (UTC)[reply]