Bloomberg Philanthropies will fund an "Innovation Delivery Team" in Los Angeles to approach the challenge of revitalizing urban neighborhoods while also creating improvements for existing populations.
With cities nationally confronting the challenges of gentrification—particularly its perceived effect of pushing out long-term, low-income residents—Los Angeles is pulling together a group to explore these issues on the ground.
In an interview with The Planning Report, Los Angeles Deputy Mayor for Budget and Innovation Rick Cole outlines the goal for the new "i-team": coordinating Los Angeles' various urban revitalization programs to ensure the benefits minimize displacement and maximize benefits for existing residents. Cole is currently spearheading the recruitment for the new "i-team" director.
He explains: "If a neighborhood suddenly becomes more attractive in the marketplace, it does seem logical that residential and commercial rents will increase. What’s missing from that equation, however, are two other factors. First, what if revitalization was so widespread across Los Angeles that attractive neighborhoods were not a scarce commodity? In other words, what if the supply of attractive areas was increased to meet the demand? Second, what if rising wages and business activity allowed existing residents and local businesses to prosper in an improving neighborhood? Targeting both these missing factors could significantly reduce displacement. Using the 'i-team' approach, we will draw on policies and programs from across the nation to see what works—and apply those lessons to LA."
FULL STORY: Cole: LA Mayor's "I-Team" Seeks to Minimize Displacement During Urban Revitalization

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

USGS Water Science Centers Targeted for Closure
If their work is suspended, states could lose a valuable resource for monitoring, understanding, and managing water resources.

Driving Equity and Clean Air: California Invests in Greener School Transportation
California has awarded $500 million to fund 1,000 zero-emission school buses and chargers for educational agencies as part of its effort to reduce pollution, improve student health, and accelerate the transition to clean transportation.

Congress Moves to End Reconnecting Communities and Related Grants
The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee moved to rescind funding for the Neighborhood Equity and Access program, which funds highway removals, freeway caps, transit projects, pedestrian infrastructure, and more.
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