Blog #4

“Gentrification is a general term for the arrival of wealthier people in an existing urban district, a related increase in rents and property values, and changes in the district's character and culture.”

My hometown, Marshall, has experienced gentrification is multiple parts of the town.  One neighborhood, called Azalea Way, was once a street full of normal, moderate houses.  It is now a long strip of mansions.  However, because the street is a dead end and not connected to the surrounding neighborhoods, the creation of these houses only affected Azalea Way.  Once the first house was torn down and built to a 5 bedroom, 3 bathrooms place, the property taxes of surrounding homes started to rise.  Eventually, each of the 20 houses were torn down and rebuilt to be nicer and much bigger homes.  

Is Austin's gentrification unique in some ways?  Yes or No, explain.

The gentrification happening in Austin seems very similar to what is happening in Johannesburg.  Hip and overpriced restaurants arise in what is known as the lower income area.  A restaurant called Hillside Farmacy in East Austin parallels with what is hopeful to happen to the Radiator Centre in Johannesburg—two brothers are looking to develop the dilapidated area.  A bar in Johannesburg resembles a coffee shop call Bennu in East Austin because it is a place where people of all different economic statuses coexist. 

What did you learn about gentrification during the East Austin van tour that is informing your view on gentrification?

I was introduced to the term “gentrification” for the first time because of this class.  I had no idea that renovations could have such a negative impact on a society.  I believed that if newer and nicer things are being built, things must have been going well for all parties involved.  However, the idea of gentrification says that culture and history is lost when a group of people are forced out of their neighborhood simply because they are unable to keep up with the price increase.