Addressing the need for more nuanced approaches towards transit‐induced gentrification: A case for a complex systems thinking framework

Abstract

The role of public transportation has shifted over the last 2 decades as planners and policymakers increasingly integrate new transportation infrastructure as an economic growth tool that promotes density and desirability. This shift has also positioned new infrastructure as a driver for neighbourhood change and gentrification, leading to the evolution of literature that explores transit‐induced gentrification. As this scholarship grows however, research has become fragmented, as the political economy work, which frames much of gentrification, is antipathetic to the neoclassical perspective that frames transportation research. The resulting inconsistencies have left researchers calling for the integration of new and holistic approaches that can address growing gaps. With transit‐induced gentrification becoming more prevalent across large and mid‐sized cities, and research lacking methodological consistency, this review considers: Can a complex systems thinking framework be used to better understand and address the process of transit‐induced gentrification?

Closing the equity deficit: Sustainability justice in municipal climate action planning in Waterloo region

“…While participants perceived clear links between justice, equity, and sustainability, this lens is just becoming apparent within climate action planning across the municipality. For example, the development of the ION LRT system in WR, has resulted in unintended consequences such as the gentrification and displacement of low‐income residents (McDougall et al, 2020). Participants recognized the injustice in that and one of the very few specific equity steps in climate action a participant was recalling was related to this development, that is, transit vouchers for low‐income individuals in the region.…”

“…While meaningful steps are being taken to integrate considerations of justice and equity in CAPs and planning, the understanding of SJ is still at the background of planning. As highlighted by the LRT system, its goal was to improve transit accessibility, stimulate investment, and intensification (density) in the Central Transit Corridor, as well as reduce GHG emissions in the municipality but signs of transit‐induced gentrification are increasingly evident (McDougall et al, 2020). While vouchers have been provided for low‐income individuals, this equity consideration can be seen as back‐ended solution, failing to address the root causes of structural oppression and inequities (Gehl, 2018).…”

Rethinking geographies of sovereignty: Towards a conceptual framework of situated sovereignty

“…Recent contributions on the concept of globalisation—and in recent years the planetary—(e.g. Mould, 2023) suggest being more specific regarding the holistic assumptions of the planetary and, consequently, addressing distinct human practices in its specific contexts. Following this critical approach and especially with regards to digital transformation, we must rethink existing concepts of sovereignty and question the very “nature of sovereignty” (Floridi, 2020, p. 5).…”