In a unique study, researchers from Northern Illinois University and American Farmland Trust found that scatter development in the Chicago suburbs is often subsidized by those living in adjoining municipalities.

Furthermore, for many living in these far flung houses and subdivisions, the emergency response times for police, ambulance and fire fighters may exceed national standards. For the first time, NIU and AFT researchers have been able to identify and define at least three patterns of scatter development common to the Chicago region. This may also be the first time anyone has documented the effects of scatter development and the delivery of emergency services.