Where people live has, for centuries, driven economic and cultural progress. It wasn’t until the 20th Century when cheap fuel and the availability of credit prompted suburban growth. Until recently these “bedroom communities” have become the standard of the American Dream. Now that Americans are more conscious about their carbon footprint, and credit is difficult to come by, will our housing habits change? Are we on the brink of a major cultural shift? What will Eau Claire look like in 2025? (more…)