(The latest in a series of posts on the Southside and Neighborhoods)
Paige Van Wirt is a Bethlehem City Councilwoman, physician, and small business owner.
Gadfly:
Thought you might like a little light reading on Gentrification. I think it helps give perspective to what we are seeing on the southside. See the sub-links to each header.
5 Must-Read Perspectives on Gentrification
I think there is a way to retain southside residents, and the great, funky quality of life in South Bethlehem, while attempting to minimize displacement of residents, while creating a more stable housing stock and stronger local economy. It’s tricky, but I think it can be done. But it must be acknowledged by the administration that not all development is “good,” especially if it changes a neighborhood’s fundamental identity. I think the right word for what we want is reinvigoration, rather than gentrification.
Paige