Law, public perception, and public benefit diverge in the wake of the Kelo decision. John Shirey attempts to explain what Kelo does -- and does not -- mean for redevelopment and its use of eminent domain.
"We were afraid that the Supreme Court might not only overturn the Connecticut Supreme Court’s initial Kelo decision but also issue some sort of sweeping opinion that would jeopardize the use of eminent domain nation-wide. So there was relief that the Court ruled in favor of the City of New London. However, none of us were prepared for the adverse public reaction that followed.
"That adverse public reaction has been manifested in nearly every statehouse in the country and in the United States Congress and, consequently, we’re now facing serious attempts to eliminate or greatly curtail the ability of redevelopment agencies to use eminent domain for redevelopment. In retrospect, while we were relieved to see the way the decision went, we would have been better off if we had lost."
Thanks to Josh Stephens
Read the full story: Kelo Backlash Ignores Benefits of Eminent Domain for Redevelopment
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City of Rosemead
Rutgers University, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy
One Hundred Miles
University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS)
Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY)
The Architects Foundation
City of Cambridge
The Pocatello Development Authority
The Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Pocatello