Personal Statement

Professor Phillips has been interested in how data can help inform planning issues. Before retiring in May 2011, he taught courses in quantitative methods and information technology applications in urban and environmental planning including Introductory Digital Visualization for Planners.  He continues adjunct teaching at the University of Virginia and advises local jurisdictions and non-profit organizations on regional demographic trends and patterns.

In his research he worked with William H. Lucy on the changes that have been occurring in the nation’s suburban places and cities. Their 2000 book Confronting Suburban Decline: Strategic Planning for Metropolitan Renewal by Island Press addressed many of the trends from 1960 to 1990.   Their 2006 book Tomorrow's Cities, Tomorrow's Suburbs published by APA Planners Press highlighted how some city neighborhoods and some older suburbs show promise welcoming places. The book focuses on all 542 cities in 312 metropolitan areas, 2586 suburbs in the nation's largest 25 metropolitan areas, and detailed census tract information from 1970 through 2000 in six metropolitan areas. Population change, income change, vintage of housing stock, household size are among the variables explored. The myth of safety in suburbs and exurbia is also explored.