The Toronto region has experienced extraordinary growth since the Second World War. This has been a period of change and experimentation, as well as numerous pioneering initiatives in managing regional growth and change. Although the region is currently experiencing stresses and strains caused by rapid growth and social change, it has nevertheless succeeded in distinguishing itself among North American cities for its quality of life and diversity.

 Neptis initiated a program, directed by historian Dr. Richard White, that aims to examine the past experience of the Toronto region, and identify important directions and initiatives, their causes and effects, and their successes and failures. In undertaking this work, Neptis is drawing on the views of public managers and experts who were centrally involved in the management of the region's growth during this period.

White, Richard, Urban Infrastructure and Urban Growth in the Toronto Region, 1950s to the 1990s, 2003.

White, Richard, The Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe in Historical Perspective