Techniques of Urban Economic Development

Catalog description

This course is an introduction to the theory and practice of economic development planning. We will explore theories of economic growth and development as well as explore pressing questions regarding income and wealth inequality and labor markets. Economic development practice in the US is the result of decades of work from local and state governments and hybrid entities (community development institutions, hospitals, redevelopment authorities, commerce departments) attempting to make their respective places more “sticky” with respect to economic activity. While economic development may seem secondary, or worse, actively harmful in addressing some of the many pressing problems facing planners today, this course is designed to highlight why economic development remains central to questions about how regions can and should grow. The economic organization of our regions is a central actor in debates concerning global warming, displacement through gentrification or decline and social inequality.