The Penntrification of West Philadelphia

Its interesting how neighborhoods change.  In many cities, if you've lived there long enough, you may notice some of the changes yourself; how neighborhoods increase and decrease in value; how populations change over time and how an entire community seems to change over night.

Over the last few decades, many American cities have gone through periods of "revitalization" or "urban renewal"  causing neighborhoods to rapidly increase in value, drawing in more affluent residents and changing the community makeup. Neighborhoods in Chicago, New York and Philadelphia have become nationally known for their rapid changes in demographics, as formerly low-income neighborhoods change to meet the needs of newcomers.

In Philadelphia, gentrification has been a contentious issue for decades and the city is now considered to be one of the cities with the fastest rates of gentrification in the nation. 

With the expansion of the University of Pennsylvania in the 1950's, many communities in West Philadelphia were changed forever as Penn made way for an influx of students and faculty and expanded into the surrounding communities.  Its widely known that the University and others employed practices that led to the demolition of neighborhoods which were then rebuilt around the school's campus to fit their needs.

The neighborhood surrounding Temple University in North Philadelphia has also changed as the University expands into the area. Like Penn, Temple's campus is situated in the heart of an impoverished area, its massive buildings looming over residents who do not always appreciate its presence. Even now, Temple is facing harsh criticism for their plans to build a new $126M football Stadium, to be located basically in the backyard of several blocks of residential streets. The proposed 35,000 seat stadium is seen by many as yet another encroachment into the community; an area where a football stadium for a bunch of college kids is the least of residents' concerns.

Of course, there are some benefits to the community when a neighborhood is revitalized and those who are able to stay can take advantage of an influx of new and improved services.  In both Penn and Temple's case, the Universities have invested millions in their surrounding communities over the years, providing programs and services to residents. Investments in security have made neighborhoods safer and both schools have provided assistance to residents through education, employment and more.

However, to many, the cost of these benefits becomes too high when Universities and other entities use their power and money to reshape the neighborhood to fit their agenda. Memories of systematic demolitions and broken promises have understandably led to distrust of those in power.  Many long-time residents fear eventual displacement and resent the intrusion regardless of the perks.

No one would say that neighborhood change is inherently evil and in fact it can be a good thing if its done respectfully and transparently, in ways that benefit residents new and old.  However, issues of race, class and power are often at the center of the debate and drown out the positives associated with change. 

How do you feel about gentrification?  Do the benefits outweigh the risks?  How is this affected by race and class?