Intentions and Repercussions of Revitalization: Urban Geographical Research Using Walking Methodology

Abstract

This paper asks readers to consider both the positive and negative impacts of gentrification on residents and business owners. The paper draws from a project that used a walking methodology to explore a neighborhood, in addition to supplemental readings related to various ways of experiencing and knowing, racial history and tensions, and issues surrounding gentrification in other areas. I begin this paper by describing experiences I had as a child, and how those previous experiences colored my perception while walking through an area of town that is now vastly different due to revitalization from my memories from when I was younger. I also explore connections made from reviews of literature related to alternative methods of collecting and exploring data, as well as reflections from sensory and emotional experiences during the walks. This research was contextualized using articles and news clips discussing various viewpoints regarding if the changes in the neighborhood should be called revitalization or gentrification. I then leave it to the reader to question both the positive and negative impacts of gentrification.