Public Housing Residents’ Perceptions: A Guide for Planning Development Improvements

Abstract

The Iberville Public Housing Development Task Force and Steering Committee were created by the Mayor of New Orleans in 1988. They were charged with developing a plan and implementation strategies that would accomplish two objectives: improve the quality of life for residents of this public housing development and enhance the economic development opportunities in the area. Four issues were identified as critical to improving the development: improved safety and reduction of crime; increased opportunities for education, socializing, recreation, and employment; renovation of the units and buildings; and better land use integration in the area. Information gathered resulted in the formulation of goals, plan components, and short-, intermediate-, and longterm strategies for refurbishment of the development. Furthermore, a nonprofit development corporation was formed to assume responsibility for achieving the Task Force plan and to act as an advocate for the residents of the Iberville Development. The process and plan itself serve as a model for other low-income housing developments.

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Notes on contributors

Christine C. Cook

Christine C. Cook is an Associate Professor at Iowa State University in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies, College of Family and Consumer Sciences.