Greened out: mitigating the impacts of eco-gentrification through community dialogue

Abstract

Cities are increasingly employing green infrastructure, defined as a network of multi-functional open spaces within cities and between cities – including green corridors, green streets, formal parks and street trees – to promote resilience and provide clean air, flood protection and erosion control. Yet there is a growing link between these efforts and rising property values and – in some cities, including Washington, DC – displacement. This history of greening and subsequent displacement can hinder successful green-infrastructure implementation. The geographical areas with the greatest need for these amenities and other resilience strategies are often those with high concentrations of low-income, racial minorities who have traditionally been disenfranchised from local planning and development processes due to a lack of knowledge and limited access, as well as institutional racism. In these areas, the perception of green infrastructure is that of something planned by others, for others, with little direct benefit to the community. This exploratory research, which examines lived experiences, builds upon the quantitative documentation of gentrification and demographic shifts in Washington, DC. Through a series of listening sessions, the study explores residents’ experiences of green infrastructure, gentrification and civic engagement in their community. The study uncovers ways in which policymakers and planners can increase support for and the success of green-infrastructure implementation by amplifying the voices of stakeholders, including communities with vulnerable populations, in the planning process.

Assessing Restorative Community Development Frameworks—A Meso-Level and Micro-Level Integrated Approach

“…As a result, they may fail to create ownership of the development process, leading to a lack of buy-in, motivation, and sustainability [28]. Micro-level community development frameworks may overlook the power dynamics and structural inequalities that underpin community issues, which can perpetuate marginalization and exclusion [29,30]. Many communities also lack the resources, capacity, and expertise needed to effectively implement and sustain community development initiatives [31].…”

Prosperity in progress: a new look at archetypes of successful community development

“…Traditionally, urban planning within a neighborhood includes a mandatory outreach meeting intended to provide residents with opportunities to engage with planners and government officials regarding a planned development (Villanueva et al, 2017). Yet often, meetings are sparsely attended due to their times, locations, and the community's belief that elected officials and developers have already brokered backroom deals (Gearin et al, 2023). Some studies have corroborated these perceptions and have found that traditional revitalization practices are often driven by city elites and elected officials who follow a predetermined project agenda shaped by private developers (Villanueva et al, 2017).…”