Urban Renewal or Urban Removal: A Case Study from Lockport, NY, 1954-1974
This kit explores the history of Lockport, NY between 1954 and 1974 when almost every major city in the United States was impacted by federal policies aimed at revitalization and modernization as part of a national movement called Urban Renewal.
Urban Renewal was driven by the desire to improve inner city living conditions, change the perception that run-down areas were a breeding ground for crime, and advance the belief that modernization would lead to economic growth.
In Lockport, the Urban Renewal movement had significant impacts on the city. The plan to redevelop areas by razing old buildings and constructing new ones, led to the loss of historic architecture and displacement of the residents, and left a legacy of vacant and underdeveloped land.
The Urban Renewal Program ended in 1974 with criticism of the negative impacts it had on urban centers and low-income communities, and the realization that the economic goals were not achieved and that new govt. policies were needed.
Created by: Niagara History Center