The sectoral model, developed by economist Homer Hoyt in 1939, posits that cities develop in wedge-shaped sectors radiating outwards from the central business district (CBD). These sectors are often determined by transportation routes and accessibility, leading similar land uses and socioeconomic groups to concentrate along particular corridors. For example, a city might have a manufacturing sector that follows a railway line, while high-income residential areas develop along a scenic route away from industrial zones. This contrasts with other urban models that suggest a more concentric or uniform pattern of urban growth.
The significance of this model lies in its recognition of the impact of transportation and economic forces on urban spatial structure. Unlike simpler models, it acknowledges that cities do not necessarily grow in perfect circles. Understanding this model helps analyze patterns of residential segregation, industrial location, and the development of urban landscapes. It offers a valuable framework for comprehending the spatial inequalities often observed within metropolitan areas and the historical processes that have shaped them. Its contribution provided a more nuanced approach to urban geography by incorporating directional growth and external influences.
