This thesis has identified the incentives for the growth of the commercial strip along State Road 109 in Anderson, Indiana. The thesis through a case study of the historical development of the commercial strip established the following findings. First, the commercial strip occurred as a result of increasing urban evolution. Second, the commercial strip occurred as a result of land speculation. Third, the commercial strip is a result of the commercial zoning and rezoning patterns. Fourth, the commercial strip occurred as a result of increased regional accessibility. Fifth, the commercial strip is a result of increased land values. Finally, the commercial strip is a result of commercial linkages. / Department of Urban Planning