Final answer:
Urban sprawl does not lead to a drop in crime rates in densely populated areas; it increases demand for housing in the suburbs and public services, potentially increasing tax revenue for developed suburban areas.
Therefore , option C is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The effect that is NOT associated with urban sprawl is C. Crime rates in densely populated areas drop. Urban sprawl typically entails the expansion of communities into suburban or exurban regions, creating new demands for housing and public services. While it can lead to an increase in tax revenue for burgeoning suburban or exurban areas, because of the new developments and possibly pricier housing markets, and undoubtedly creates a demand for new public services to support the larger population in these regions, it does not necessarily contribute to a drop in crime rates in densely populated areas. Generally, as more affluent residents move out of the city into the suburbs, tax revenues can decrease in the urban core, potentially leading to decreased funding for essential services, including law enforcement, which can impact crime rates negatively.
Factors that led to the creation of exurbs include urban sprawl and the consequent desire of people to move out of crowded cities while maintaining their connection to the urban job market. Gentrification is another urban phenomenon that affects cities by potentially displacing less affluent residents and can exacerbate traffic and pollution issues.
Among the challenges posed by urbanization and urban sprawl are traffic congestion, overcrowded schools, and a widening economic gap. The increased commuting time, overuse of natural resources, and elevated pollution levels are symptomatic of the growth away from city centers as people search for more living space and a potentially better quality of life outside of the densest urban areas.