Inner-Cities'
Strategic Revitalization Planning
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“It is only when the basic needs are met that culture can thrive. Revitalization of our inner cities is the innovation that will allow for maximum cultural growth in this country. Making sure that all Americans have access to opportunity and technology will ensure future generations of city dwellers do not live in poverty. By investing in these areas, developers and businesses are investing in the base of this country. Music, art and the sciences require a healthy, vibrant, and supportive community and the work being done to rebuild our inner cities is essential to our culture as a whole.”
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“Neighborhood Revitalization is the way of the future and is an essential element of [our] work. By focusing on entire neighborhoods, we can greatly increase our impact.”
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— Jonathan Reckford, CEO, Habitat for Humanity International
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"Neighborhood Revitalization is a holistic approach that expands [the] traditional partnership with new homeowners and volunteers to include neighbors and local organizations for a far greater impact... Neighborhood Revitalization starts at the grassroots level — with people in the community determining the goals for their neighborhood...
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"It is important to elevate the standard of living for the existing community, not just shove it aside in the pursuit of a gentrified city. Giving the existing people a chance at independence raises the standard of living for all residents in the city and preserves the rich heritage and character of the city."
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One cannot speak of a city's and a people's independence without speaking of their economic independence. The ability of people to obtain jobs and meet their basic needs is a huge determinant of how well that people's culture will flourish. It is difficult to pursue the arts or education if one is impoverished. The rebuilding of inner cities can raise the quality of life for many Americans by bringing businesses that provide jobs and opportunity back to the cities. Also, a city that has a thriving business community has a healthy tax base to support its public education system. The public school is an integral part of revitalization. Providing students with a high-quality, technology-based education prepares them to become successful, contributing citizens. Inner city school systems are notorious for their high dropout rates and general difficulty in producing good students. By revitalizing inner cities, parents are given access to jobs and can provide a better home environment for their children.
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