There are a number of challenges the City of Worcester and other cities struggle with when it comes to just sustainability and urban planning including, limited resources, urban sprawl, long-term vision vs short-term pressure, behavioral change, and infrastructure deficits. Lets break down these challenges and learn about some solutions.
Limited Resources: Financial, natural, and cultural resources are all important to a developing city. Without financial resources for investments in urban planning it disproportionately effects low income communities. For example, if roads are repaired using income taxes, there is a never ending cycle of low income areas not receiving adequate road construction/fixing. This creates hazardous roads prone to flooding and car breakdowns that require expensive repairs. Cultural resources, including historic landmarks, heritage sites, and cultural districts, contribute to the unique identity and sense of place of a city. They reflect the history, values, and traditions of a community, fostering pride and a connection to local heritage. It is important that this culture does not get lost in urban planning and redesign. In an interview with a Holy Cross graduate where we discussed how urban planning and gentrification was stripping the city of its culture and traditions she stated that, “what makes Worcester beautiful and different is how culturally diverse it is. Driving out those communities is shameful and I think there needs to be a greater focus on equity within the sustainable urban planning initiative”.
Urban Sprawl: Urban sprawl is the expansion of urban development, encompassing residences, high-density apartment complexes, office structures, and commercial centers, onto previously undeveloped land in close proximity to a moderately to densely populated city. Urban sprawl has been associated with heightened energy consumption, pollution, and traffic congestion, as well as a reduction in the uniqueness and unity of communities. This has the opposite effect of the sustainable urban planning we are seeking. We want and need urban planning that brings communities together, celebrates the cities traditions and cultures, as well as puts clean energy at the forefront of urban development.
Long-Term Vision vs Short-Term Pressure: There is urgency within city planning to become both sustainable and beautiful, and there are situations where beauty and attractiveness of the city are prioritized over sustainability and equity. The City of Worcester feels this immense pressure to hold its title as an ‘up-and-coming’ city, as the second largest city in New England there is pressure to create tourism to advance the economy. It is crucial that the actions being taken are considering the longevity of the City so that it can be enjoyed for future generations and the natural ecosystem can still flourish.
Behavioral Change: Mindset can be a major barrier in regards to sustainable urban planning, we live in a society where we have an individualistic mindset and prioritize money. This mindset is incredibly dangerous if we are working to make effective change though community and collectivism. In a For the Wild Podcast episode with Chuck Collins on Wealth Hoarding and Capitalist Capture, the podcasts notes “At the same time, the climate crisis calls us to reckon with our value systems and to question the cultural conditionings by which we have been surrounded. It is delusional to think that even the wealthiest among us will be able to escape climate crisis entirely. Instead of relying on broken and untrustworthy systems, how can we seed a new economy of solidarity as we work to live within Earth’s boundaries?”. It is essential for us to reflect on our values and challenge cultural/societal norms that have shaped our perceptions of sustainability and climate change.
Infrastructure Deficits: Infrastructure deficits refers to capital projects required for the expansion, improvement, or restoration of municipal infrastructure systems. These projects have been postponed due to exceeding the current funding capacity of the Municipality. A prime example of this is Polar Park, it was estimated to cost $86-90 million, but cost the city approximately $160 million, and lead the City to a predicted deficit of $40-60 million and the City is in debt roughly $140 million for construction that needs to be paid back within 30 years.
How is this being addressed?
Worcester Now | Next is a comprehensive citywide planning initiative spanning two-years that actively involves the community in discussions concerning land use, urban design, housing, transportation, economic development, culture, environmental conservation, and public services. Their plan is broken down into two phases;
Phase 1: Listen, Learn, Test
This phase focuses on learning about community and citywide opportunities and needs.
Phase 2: Analyze, Revise, Document
This phase involves working with the community to evaluate future visions and prioritize actions and recommendations that the planning team will incorporate. The planning team will continue collecting feedback, ideas, and responses from a variety of community members to enhance plans.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT IS KEY!!!!