FACTORS INFLUENCING POST-EARTHQUAKE REDEVELOPMENT: LESSONS FROM LOS ANGELES AND KOBE

摘要

This paper discusses the results of a multi-year comparative study of urban redevelopment in Los Angeles, California and Kobe, Japan, following the January 17, 1994 Northridge Earthquake and January 17, 1995 Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. The close timing of these earthquakes offers a unique opportunity to compare and contrast the reconstruction outcomes, taking into account base commonalities and dissimilarities, including those influenced by cultural variables. Regional conditions at the time of the earthquakes, general reconstruction strategies and neighborhood conditions all significantly influenced the reconstruction policies, programs and outcomes. In rebuilding after a devastating earthquake, a community has the opportunity to improve on what was there before. Using data, interviews, mapping, and field observations collected from neighborhood-level investigations in three districts in Los Angeles and four in Kobe, the study considers how physical, financial, and institutional factors facilitated or impeded improvement. In particular, investigations focused on quantifying the effects of: 1) property ownership patterns, 2) nature and availability of financing, 3) influence of previous plans, 4) institutional framework including citizen organizations, and 5) regulatory framework including government land use and redevelopment policies. Redevelopment opportunities were created in both cities, including economic development, improved housing, greater safety, additional parks, and citizen participation. They also resulted in physical, social, and economic changes that provide useful insights for future earthquake rebuilding decisions.