Lecture Notes on Brooklyn Neighborhood Transformation

Introduction

• Discussion about the nature of change: Not all change is beneficial.
• Historical context provided about the Brooklyn community.

Brooklyn Community Overview

• Known as Brooklyn, a key African-American neighborhood in Charlotte.
• Community featured strong communal ties, with everyone looking out for each other.
• The center of African-American civic life and business.
  • Black Main Street, near today's Martin Luther King Boulevard.
• Described as a beloved neighborhood with thriving local businesses including:
  • Dry cleaners
  • Grocery stores
  • Meat markets
  • Shoeshine stands
  • Barbershops

Social Dynamics

• Economic diversity within Brooklyn:
  • Poor, middle-class, and affluent residents.
• Neighborhood characterized by community activities and rich social life.

Urban Challenges

• Issues: congested streets, inadequate parking, retail vacancies.
• Proposed solution: A master plan of development, essential for downtown Charlotte.

Urban Renewal and its Impact

• Urban renewal led to displacement, also referred to as "black removal."
• Brooklyn community displaced to the west side.
• Aim: Eradicate blighted neighborhoods for a perfect city.
  • Misconceptions about Brooklyn being just a shantytown.
  • Variety in housing quality and price points within Brooklyn.

Reflection and Loss

• Residents feel like strangers in their changed hometown.
• Physical landmarks and community essence largely lost.
• Loss of black businesses, theatres, cafes, and tailor shops.

Future Developments: Brooklyn Village Project

• Aim: Honor Brooklyn's history while introducing modern vibrance.
• Components of the redevelopment:
  • 106,800 sq ft of retail
  • 532,000 sq ft of office space
  • 395 housing units with 30% below market rates for 60% AMI or less.
• Emphasis on preserving Brooklyn's spirit in new developments.

Conclusion

• Acknowledgment of the emotions tied to Brooklyn's history.
• Intent to rebuild with respect to the community's spirit and legacy.
• Brooklyn Village as part of a broader change in Charlotte’s landscape.