Many of us know Chinatown as the cheapest place to grab a great bite and a “Fendi” bag, but the face of Chinatown is changing. As contractors develop more high rises, and luxury condominiums the greatest ethnic enclave is beginning to feel the pressure of the gentry.
Gentrification is a type of revitalization where lower-income neighborhoods get a physical revamp, with increased investment, as well as an increased price tag. Such changes come hand in hand with an increase of higher end merchandise stores, chain restaurants, and higher-earning residents. While revitalization is a good thing, raising stagnating neighborhoods out of the depths of economic downfall, over-gentrification can displace many businesses and residents.
Our site is designed to look at the change happening in Chinatown economically as well as architecturally. By looking at Chinatown’s historical context, economic situation, community housing needs, revitalization projects and current developments in the area we plan to show current displacement of Chinatown and its residents and where development could be better directed.
Vanishing New York: Gentrification Around the City
Unfortunately, over-gentrification is happening at an astounding rate to many neighborhoods around New York City
