Although the [Texas Urban Development Commission] has worked with a rather broad definition of urban development, it did not deal with some areas in as much depth as others because of recent studies by other state and national groups on these topics. The Commission does view this report, however, as a comprehensive analysis which touches on the important aspects of life in the urban areas of Texas. The conclusions and recommendations presented here are the product of scores of meetings involving the entire Commission or its individual committees. A large number of state and local officials, members of the academic community, and representatives of private organizations participated in meetings or hearings. The Commission believes that the cooperation it received in its work indicates a strong interest and commitment among governmental, professional, and business leaders around the state for continued improvement in the quality of life for Texas residents.