Many of the historic urban centers that define American industry, culture, and civic life are struggling. These older communities—often referred to as rust belt, weak market, slow growth, or undercapitalized cities—have been hit hard by a changing economy, decades-long out-migration of people and resources, and a devastating ebb in state and federal government support.

A PolicyLink report released in February, 2006 offers policy ideas and strategies to reestablish older urban centers as economically competitive and socially inclusive places where all residents can participate and prosper. Shared Prosperity, Stronger Regions: An Agenda for Rebuilding America’s Older Core Cities looks at Baltimore, Cleveland, Detroit, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh as case studies to develop an agenda for restorative action.