Exodus within an expanding city: The case of Houston's historic African-American communities

摘要

Houston, Texas is a city characterized by growth. Since being founded in 1836 the city has continuously expanded, both in land area and population. But within this predominant pattern of growth there are significant exceptions. Particularly poignant is the case of Houston's historic African-American neighborhoods. Over the last 50 years most of the neighborhoods have gradually lost population - a result of land speculation practices, disinvestment and the unintended consequences of desegregation. This article focuses on five historic African-American neighborhoods that form a horseshoe around the eastern half of Houston: Acres Homes; Independence Heights; Settegast; Clinton Park and Sunnyside. In a city that is constantly expanding, most of these communities are shrinking. The narrative histories of the neighborhoods are explored as the foundation for a broader urban design methodology, while also developing urban design strategies that work across scales and processes.