The grassroots and New Urbanism: a case from a Southern California Latino community

Abstract

Participation is important to the design of New Urbanist plans. We examine the benefits and challenges of community organizing and action research for the types of needs in lower-income Latino urban areas undergoing New Urbanism. We use the case of Santa Ana, which recently released a plan for the Station District project to revitalize a transit-oriented area supported by a Mexican and working-class urban neighborhood. The Station District is an example of New Urbanism, which promotes transit service and mixed income neighborhoods. We examine how a coalition planned within and outside the public policy process in pursuit of a community benefits agreement (CBA). One noteworthy finding is that organizing and action research allow a deep picture of urban development issues and this is important to respond to local context. There are challenges in obtaining a CBA and sustaining a coalition. We conclude by suggesting research on governance and claims to place.

Keywords:

• New Urbanism
• coalitions
• community organizing
• action research
• immigrants
• Latinos

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank all members of SACReD and other individuals and organizations who provided invaluable technical assistance and guidance. They recognize and sincerely thank the residents who were part of this case study as well as the broader Lacy neighborhood. They also appreciate the suggestions of the insightful and helpful reviewers. The primary author also recognizes support for this study from the Office of the President at California State University, Fullerton. Any misinterpretations are the authors’ own.