Date of Award

5-1-2002

Degree Type

Dissertation

University or Center

Clark Atlanta University(CAU)

Degree Name

Ph.D.

Department

Political Science

First Advisor

Dr. Johnny L. Wilson

Abstract

This study examined the impact of economic development and the reuse of
environmental hazardous sites (brownfields) in urban communities.
The study was based on the premise that the lack of legitimate community
involvement in decision making regarding brownfield land reuse has disproportionately affected minority populations that are least able to defend themselves due to poverty and political powerlessness. Several research questions would emanate from the above.
A case study analysis approach was used to gather information on the City of
Atlanta, Georgia, and several of its Empowerment Zone communities. Socio
demographic data was gathered and three interview surveys were developed.
The researcher found that low-income blacks find themselves isolated and in a defenseless position when it comes to voicing their issue stands on community development and/or any other public policy issue that affects their community.
The conclusion drawn from the findings suggest that several factors including,
the lack of a redevelopment plan, administrative changes, personal agendas, and democratic window dressing in policy making, may all have attributed to this problem.


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