Study to Determine Sources of Strength in Economically Distressed Sections of Major American Cities: Final Report

摘要

Three census tracts each in Atlanta, Ga., and New York City were analyzed to determine the extent to which residents of economically distressed areas have access to resources necessary to revitalize their neighborhoods. The study entailed four data collection efforts and analyses: selection of 6 census tracts with varying degrees of social pathology from those in which 50 percent or more of the families were living below the poverty level; interviews with 280 adult residents of these tracts; and interviews with leaders of 30 groups and organizations that provide services to these areas. The Brownsville section of Brooklyn, Belmont-Bronx South, and the Lower East Side of Manhattan were selected in New York City and the Perry Homes Housing Project, Clark Howell Housing Project and part of the Central Business District, and the West End were selected in Atlanta. Each tract had a large proportion of single parent families. Low pathology tracts in each city had the greatest amount of human resources overall compared to tracts with high pathology. All neighborhoods had deteriorated between 1960 and 1970, and their residents were worse off than people in the larger surrounding areas. While many organizations were involved in these neighborhoods, few residents were active participants, and existing organizations were not handling the community's problems adequately. The overall study results show that rehabilitation of the six neighborhoods would require the infusion of outside resources, but should also mobilize existing local resources to be successful. The report discusses the demographic and survey analyses in detail, identifies differences between New York City and Atlanta, and recommends community revitalization measures. Tables and questionnaires are supplied.