In the Goals for the Region Project and in discussions with groups of many kinds, Regional Plan Association has found extensive agreement that prospects for the future of the New York metropolitan area are not satisfactory - if present trends and policies continue. Despite this widespread dissatisfaction with present trends, many people are skeptical about the possibility of changing them. They feel that the metropolis will drift into increasing difficulties because policies are too hard to change.

But recent events belie the skepticism. Steps have been taken in this and other Regions to rescue these areas from a mediocre future.

Almost every idea for improving convenience and attractiveness in the New York Metropolitan Region and for enlarging the choice of jobs, goods, services, housing location and transportation modes has been tried successfully in one place or another. Technology is at the service of the metropolis; the federal government stands ready to provide aid toward improvements. All that seems to stand in the way is skepticism of regional leaders that residents of this area really care about the approaching problems and really want to grasp the opportunity to build a great metropolis.