Student Scholarship

Document Type

Article

Abstract

This paper, submitted in 1954, examines the methods and agencies involved in the redevelopment of slum areas in Washington, D.C.. The primary focus is the District of Columbia Redevelopment Land Agency (RLA), which was established by the Redevelopment Act of 1945 to acquire and clear blighted land for redevelopment. While the RLA possesses the power of eminent domain to assemble real property, it is notably prohibited from constructing new structures, relying instead on private enterprise to carry out the actual building phase of its plans. 

The document details the RLA’s administrative evolution, including the transition from an unfunded board to a staffed agency eligible for federal assistance under the Housing Act of 1949. Early efforts were marked by the failure of the Marshall Heights project due to poor public relations and administrative inexperience, leading the agency to prioritize better community engagement for subsequent projects. Central to the agency's mission is the redevelopment of Southwest Washington, specifically Project Area B. The author analyzes three distinct planning approaches for this area: the conservative Peets Plan, the idealistic Justement-Smith Plan, and the moderate Bartholomew Plan. 

A significant portion of the study addresses the challenges of relocation. The RLA is legally mandated to ensure displaced residents find safe and sanitary housing, with approximately half of the affected families in Project Area B qualifying for public housing. Additionally, the paper discusses alternatives to total clearance, such as the enforcement of a housing code and voluntary rehabilitation efforts. Finally, it contrasts the government’s welfare-oriented approach with private redevelopment, such as projects in Georgetown or those led by individual realtors, noting that while private interests can effectively improve neighborhoods, they often lack the comprehensive relocation services provided by the RLA.

Research Highlights

  • The Problem: Blighted and slum areas in Washington, D.C., presented health and social challenges, necessitating a transition from gradual deterioration to organized urban renewal. 

  • The Method: Analysis of the District of Columbia Redevelopment Land Agency’s history, legislative framework (Redevelopment Act of 1945 and Housing Act of 1949), and specific project area surveys using American Public Health Association appraisal techniques. 

  • Quantitative Finding: The Redevelopment Land Agency was authorized a $20 million revolving trust fund; the staff consists of 22 persons; Project Area B relocation affects a population that is 50% eligible for public housing. 

  • Qualitative Finding: Success in redevelopment requires balancing "idealistic" transformation with practical rehousing needs; effective public relations are critical to project survival; private redevelopment (e.g., Georgetown) can transform neighborhoods but lacks the centralized relocation support provided by government agencies.

Publication Date

1-1954

Faculty Sponsor

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