New parks and green spaces can improve the quality of life in a community and help protect against flooding in the event of global warming.
However, this attractiveness can also lead to rising rents, higher taxes and the emergence of developers looking to buy up dilapidated properties.
When residents of the North Riverside neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida, learned that the city was planning to take action to address chronic flooding from a local creek and create gardens and trails along its banks, they were excited—but also concerned.
Gloria McNair is with the nonprofit organization Groundwork Jacksonville.
McNair: “They were afraid of being displaced… that they would be displaced and would no longer be able to afford to live there.”
Some homes in the low-income area need major repairs, such as new roofs or mold remediation. Owners who can’t afford these jobs may feel pressured to sell, which is why McNair’s group created the North Riverside Home Repair Program.
More than a million dollars has been invested in major repairs and energy efficient retrofits that help people save money on their electricity bills each month.
The program makes it easier for long-term residents …
McNair: “…to be able to afford to stay in their neighborhood.”
And enjoy more green spaces and less flooding.
Reporting: Sarah Kennedy / ChavoBart Digital Media
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