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MA/PhD Theses Abstracts of Current Students & Alumni |
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Hunt, Jeanne Palmer. April, 1985 - PLANNING REVITALIZATION IN AN URBAN NEIGHBORHOOD
Abstract: This thesis examines the reasons why self-help revitalization activity in a community is unlikely to succeed without substantial community involvement in planning. Data for this study are derived from my observation of, and participation in, planning a neighborhood improvement project in Tampa, Florida. The primary goal was to address the problems of physical blight in West Tampa by planning a self-help, exterior paint project. The paint project was also aimed at promoting social change by increasing the organizational effectiveness of a neighborhood organization, West Tampa Revitalization Corporation, and increasing resident involvement in the organization. The study was conducted through standard anthropological methods including key informant interviews, participant observation, examination of documents from public and private sources, surveys, and field notes. The plan, formulated with the cooperation of local organizations, was articulated in two proposals that were designed to secure resources to do the project. My roles in the project were those of resource mobilizer and planner. A brief commentary on the relationship of anthropology and community development is provided. Urban neighborhood problems such as disinvestment, abandonment, displacement, and gentrification are examined. The need for citizen participation in community development, and for political empowerment of a neighborhood is discussed, followed by a description of methods of data collection and analysis involved in project planning and development. An overview of the setting in which the work was done provides the background for a discussion of the planning and mobilization of resources for the project. Summarizing, the absence of strong community support and citizen participation in planning activities appeared to stem mainly from problems within the two organizations that were central to planning revitalization activity. These observations provide the basis for recommending that the West Tampa Revitalization Corporation seek technical advice addressing such issues as their constitution and bylaws, leadership training, communication with other sectors of the community, and membership recruitment.
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