Mi Casa no es Su Casa: The Fight for Equitable Transit-Oriented Development in an Inner-Ring Suburb

Abstract

Transit-oriented development (TOD) often raises land values and can promote gentrification and the displacement in low-income communities. Little research, however, has shown how communities have organized to fight for more equitable TOD processes and outcomes within particular metropolitan contexts and dynamics of neighborhood change. This case study examines the role of neighborhood-based advocacy and organizing in fighting for equitable TOD and tackling key political and planning challenges in a predominantly Latinx immigrant inner-ring suburb. Their successes show the strengths of community-based, cross-sector coalitions in generating more equitable and inclusive TOD processes, plans, and policies that target conditions of place-based precarity.

Out of the Urban Shadows: Uneven Development and Spatial Politics in Immigrant Suburbs

“…Owners’ language and educational barriers can further strain already poor communication (Lung‐Amam et al. 2019a). Many immigrant‐owned businesses also struggle to compete with national chains or large businesses that tend to dominate suburban retail.…”

“…As in housing, many suburbs lack small business associations or other organizations that can represent the interests of immigrant workers and business owners (Lung‐Amam et al. 2019a).…”

“…Bordered by state highways, it has one of the highest pedestrian fatality rates in the state of Maryland (Lung‐Amam et al. 2019a).…”

“…However, such investments can also contribute to transit‐induced displacement that disproportionately affects vulnerable residents, including low‐income immigrants (Lung‐Amam et al. 2019a).…”

“…Like schools, suburban faith–based institutions are vital community infrastructure for immigrants. Whether a church, mosque or temple, faith–based institutions are not only places of worship for immigrants, but also places to access and exchange resources, bond with those that share their faith and ethnic identities, and build bridges with other groups that support their integration within new places (Lung–Amam and Gade 2018). However, neighborhood complaints related to their religious services and events sometime erupt into a politics of difference that threaten their viability and functionality (Padoongpatt 2015).…”