In this paper the interrelationships among income, health, education, employment and crime in the nation's metropolitan areas are explored in the context of recent and current trends in housing, transportation and urban growth policy. The central role of inner city schools in these phenomena is assessed. Alternative metropolitan strategies for central city investment or disinvestment are examined and two alternative public policy strategies are outlined. The revitalization or investment approach would necessitate reorganized urban land use; financial incentives for industrial location or expansion; reduced automobile and truck congestion; neighborhood stability and security; high quality schools; and, most difficult of all, a political majority in state legislatures and the Congress. Each of these aspects of revitalization is elaborated. The status quo or disinvestment strategy would involve improved inner city transportation and subsidized employment, as would the revitalization strategy. High quality schools would also be developed, but with different emphases over time (e.g., vocational versus college preparation). However, the population and business loss from the inner city would continue to take place, and increasing government subsidization would be required for those who stay. Both strategies would cost tremendous amounts of money, although the disinvestment approach would result in much higher losses in urban property values. Since 1971, the Congress and the American people, however, have been giving tacit approval to the latter approach. (Author/GC)