Redefining Blight

From New London to the Atlantic Yards, the last month has seen a flood of news around the issue of eminent domain. Diana Lind wonders if we need a new definition of 'blighted.'

1 minute read

December 4, 2009, 9:00 AM PST

By Alek Miller


"While I would agree that there is much vacant land in the Atlantic Yards area, that there is an 'inadequate street layout' and other problems, the fact is that the neighborhood is fairly vibrant nonetheless. And while I think that the train yards could be revitalized, I don't think that other buildings, where people currently live and don't want to leave, need to be taken over. Is the definition of blighted problematic or is the whole concept of eminent domain the problem? I'm curious to know if there are lots of instances when non-controversial eminent domain usage radically transformed a neighborhood into a much better place."

Monday, November 30, 2009 in Next American City

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I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

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