Topic 6.10: Challenges of Urban Changes

Redlining, Gentrification, and Disamenity Zones (SPS-6.A)

1. The Legacy of Redlining (1930s - Present)

In the 1930s, the HOLC graded neighborhoods. "Red" zones were deemed "Hazardous" (often minority areas) and denied mortgages.

City Map (Click to Grade)

Northside Eastside Westside Southside

Home Value Growth (1930-2020)

Click "Apply Grades" to see the long-term economic impact.

Blockbusting

Real estate agents convinced white homeowners to sell cheap by stoking fear that minorities were moving in. They then resold to minorities at inflated prices. Result: "White Flight."

Environmental Injustice

Redlined zones (Disamenity Zones) were often zoned for industry. Today, these areas suffer higher rates of asthma, hotter temperatures (Heat Islands), and lack parks.

2. The Gentrification Balance

Renovate the neighborhood. Watch the Tax Revenue rise, but watch the Displacement rise too.

Click a house to renovate it.

Tax Base (City Wealth) Low

Pays for better schools, parks, and police.

Displacement (Rent Cost) Low

Original low-income residents forced to move out.

Start renovating to see the effects.

3. Squatter Settlements (Favelas)

Millions in LDCs live in "Disamenity Zones" on the periphery. They lack Land Tenure (legal ownership).

Scenario: A new settlement has formed on a dangerous hillside in Rio. What do you do?

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Current Status: Illegal Settlement

No water, no electricity, high crime.