Developing a model for Transit Oriented Development in Latino Immigrant Communities: A National Study of Equity and TOD

Abstract

Line into Boyle Heights and the revitalization linked to Boyle Heights due to two TODs built in that neighborhood. I conclude from all four cases that TODs can help serve as catalysts for neighborhood revitalization in low-income communities by paying attention and building upon endogenous forms of cultural, political, financial and built capital that exist in these neighborhoods. Residents and neighborhood activists should play a meaningful role in the development process in order to make the new investments in these communities beneficial to these barrios. The new transportation infrastructure investments will increase pressures of gentrification and, hence, I offer specific strategies and tools that urban planners and transportation policymakers can implement to help create more equitable outcomes in these barrios while mitigating for gentrification risks. Strategies learned from these case studies include building affordable housing, supporting Latino culturally relevant public spaces (Latino/barrio placemaking), investing in community-based public arts, and collaborating with activists in the neighborhoods to make these TODs more community oriented.

Predicting Resident Involvement in Neighborhood and Voluntary Groups in a Latino/Latina Neighborhood Undergoing Transit-Oriented Development and Gentrification

“…This study provided empirical evidence of Smart Growth principles that identify community demographics (race, ethnicity, and religion), existing social assets (sense of belonging and existing informal and formal social networks among generational families involved in organizations), visual representations of culture via festivals, murals, and beautification projects, as well as the need to feel physically safe from crime (Cameron & Potvin, 2016;Jabareen & Ziberman, 2016;Mahapatra & Alam, 2016;Sandoval, 2016). The MP neighborhood had many assets prior to the streetcar-related development, which provide a strong foundation of "joiners" in ethnic, school, and religious organizations that welcome the new residents and demonstrate a willingness to work with them to maintain the neighborhood character and culture within the boundaries of maintaining a quiet neighborhood with local businesses (Baggetta, 2015(Baggetta, , 2016CFC, 2015).…”

“…The community development discipline has renewed interest in belonging and SOC, particularly in neighborhoods with ethnic groups experiencing gentrification. Smart growth principles note the importance of identifying community demographics (such as race, ethnicity, religion, and socioeconomic status), as well as existing social assets (such as a sense of belonging rooted in generational formal and informal networks of families and neighborhood associations), cultural perspectives (such as visual representations of meaningful cultural festivals and rituals that preserve Indigenous culture, history, and heritage), and needs (such as feeling safe, connected, and involved in communities with recreational and arts amenities; Cameron & Potvin, 2016; Jabareen & Ziberman, 2016; Mahapatra & Alam, 2016; Sandoval, 2016).…”

“…MP is an example of a bilingual and bicultural community that may benefit from catalysts for neighborhood improvements if they can maintain a pluralistic neighborhood subculture that does not disrupt the existing identities, connections, and engagement (CFC, 2015; Mendez, 2005). The changing demographics are a potential stimulus for conflict if intentional inclusionary planning and ongoing community development practices are not implemented that proactively address barriers to ongoing engagement in a multicultural neighborhood with a mix of race, ethnicity, and household incomes (Cameron & Potvin, 2016; CFC, 2016; Jabareen & Ziberman, 2016; Mahapatra & Alam, 2016; Sandoval, 2016). The tension is particularly relevant because the neighborhood SOC is part of the draw for the gentrification.…”

“…Neighborhood cohesion, ties, and SOC may contribute to involvement in voluntary and neighborhood associations even in neighborhoods with changing demographics, such as an influx of higher income and Caucasian residents, because neighborhood organizations provide a place for ongoing positive contact within and across racial/ethnic groups that are working together on common goals (Allport, 1954; Dinesen & Sonderskov, 2015; Uslaner, 2011; Wilson, 2009). Organizations such as MPNA will need to proactively address barriers and create inclusionary practices to promote ongoing engagement in a multicultural neighborhood, which is particularly relevant given the power within leadership roles given to new residents in addition to identity-based privilege of new residents (Cameron & Potvin, 2016; CFC, 2016; Jabareen & Ziberman, 2016; Mahapatra & Alam, 2016; Sandoval, 2016).…”