Mapping urban revitalization: using GIS spatial analysis to evaluate a new housing policy

Area of Science:

• Urban Planning
• Community Health
• Geospatial Analysis

Background:

• Neighborhood revitalization projects aim to improve declining urban areas.
• Mixed-income housing developments are a strategy for deconcentrating poverty.
• Redevelopment of brownfields is crucial for urban renewal.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the community-wide impact of a neighborhood revitalization project using Geographical Information System (GIS) software.
• To assess the spillover effects of a new housing development on surrounding older neighborhoods.
• To explore the utility of GIS mapping as a complementary tool for community research and presentation.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal, multimethod study was conducted over two waves (1993-95 and 1998-99).
• Data collected included resident surveys, environmental assessments, and building permit records, geocoded to the block level.
• Geographical Information System (GIS) software was used to map changes in property conditions, home repairs, and residents' pride.

Main Results:

• Overall physical conditions in the neighborhood improved post-revitalization.
• Spatial analysis indicated that the spillover effects of the new housing were geographically limited.
• Unintended negative psychological consequences for residents were observed.

Conclusions:

• Greater use of GIS and block-level analysis is recommended for community research.
• Incorporating psychological and behavioral variables into planning research and decisions is essential.
• The study highlights the complex, and sometimes unintended, consequences of urban revitalization efforts.