Roanoke, Virginia offers a lesson in grassroots economic development for "small, out-of-the-way cities everywhere."
"Roanoke is back on the map," according to an article by Colin Woodard. Only a decade ago, noted Woodward, the U.S Census counted only 15 people living in the city's downtown. Now, however, "downtown has been revitalized and, for the first time in its history, has 2,000 people living in it, many of them getting to and from other parts of the city via a refurbished greenbelt."
The article includes a lot more data to back up the narrative of Roanake of a revitalization success story before answering the question of how "a small city in a disadvantaged region four hours from a major metropolis—one that had seen its signature industries atrophy or depart, that lacked so much as a branch campus of a state university—[transformed] itself from the forgotten stepsister of the Appalachians into a formidable rival to Asheville, North Carolina?"
FULL STORY: Trains Built Roanoke. Science Saved It.
The Mall Is Dead — Long Live the Mall
The American shopping mall may be closer to its original vision than ever.
Report: Las Vegas, Houston Top List of Least Affordable Cities
The report assesses the availability of affordable rental units for low-income households.
‘Micro-Apartment’ Trend Underscores Housing Crisis
SROs are making a comeback under a new name as the housing supply remains strained and costs soar.
Indian States Give Women Free Bus Passes
The programs are part of an initiative aimed at helping more women join the workforce and improving access to basic needs.
Study: How to Revitalize Downtown Minneapolis
A proposal calls for a reevaluation of the city’s skyways, a focus on street-facing businesses, and an improved public realm.
Milwaukee Residents Challenge Freeway Expansion
Residents are voicing opposition to a planned expansion of Interstate 94, arguing that the project would eliminate the limited green space in the neighborhood.
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Baylands Development Inc.
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
Mpact Transit + Community
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
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Colorado Department of Local Affairs
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