The family of NADP and CASTNET monitoring networks are the foundation for our understanding of atmospheric wet and dry nitrogen (N) deposition to landscapes.  As such, empirical deposition measurements from these networks are critical inputs for watershed models, critical loads assessments, and ecosystem studies.  Further, data collected from these networks are commonly used to assess emission control policies.  However, isotopic, remote sensing, public health and modeling studies indicate a more spatially heterogeneous pattern of reactive N deposition than is currently captured by these networks.  In this presentation, we highlight present knowledge regarding rates of urban atmospheric deposition of reactive N, controls on these rates, and key unknowns.  We then examine the potential implications of such deposition patterns on ecosystem processes, human health, and water quality using examples from near-road and urban settings.