Can An Influx Of Gay Residents Revitalize A Community?

After years of efforts, could an influx of gay residents finally revitalize downtown Detroit?

1 minute read

January 16, 2003, 10:00 AM PST

By Chris Steins @planetizen


"Since the riots of 1967, Detroit has tried several strategies to revitalize its downtown, including riverfront development and a new mass transit system. City leaders continue to hope that General Motors' move downtown in 1996 will bolster the city's comeback.Now, some leaders are hoping that an influx of gay residents will help revitalize Detroit. Though the idea is buttressed by a growing body of research, the notion comes as a surprise, given the city's often prickly relationship with the gay community... Detroit seems to be getting the message. The City Council is on the verge of passing a measure that would grant benefits to same-sex domestic partners of city employees."

Thanks to Laura Kranz

Thursday, January 16, 2003 in The Boston Globe

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