Urban Renewal and Effects on Poverty

Abstract

Urban renewal policies since the New Deal era have had complicated effects on the outcomes of the American poor. Using Amartya Sen’s capability framework, this paper identifies housing as a key resource necessary for well-being. Through the examination of urban renewal policies, specifically housing initiatives, since the 1930s, one can observe hegemonic outcomes that have occurred as a result of profit-driven development. I conclude that the social capital and individual agency of community members has been severely understated in the majority of urban renewal policies in the U.S. Thus, future projects must prioritize the social agency of community members in order to create sustainable development projects in poor urban areas.