The recession that began in 2007 technically ended in 2009, but you wouldn’t know it from visiting Detroit. The capital of U.S. auto manufacturing has been hit particularly hard, and stories of its plight during the economic downturn abound. Less reported, though, are the ideas and proposals put forth to return this city to its former glory. The urban renewal projects proposed are some of the latest in a long line of design projects that attempt to bring renewed prosperity and well being to the downtrodden sections of cities throughout the world. More on urban renewal and Detroit after the break.
Urban renewal began as programs of reconstruction during the late 19th century, and was at its most intense during the period directly after the Second World War. It is primarily used to describe land redevelopment programs, and is often touted as an effective means to develop communities. Urban renewal projects are often undertaken to reclaim unused or downtrodden land within a city, land that could be valuable to its residents if redeveloped. These projects are normally backed by the government, and usually involve, among others, architects and urban planners. The value of urban renewal projects is often debated, as it can sometimes lead to gentrification and displacement of the poor. But when successful, they can be powerful examples of how good design can have a positive effect on a city.
