Why Study a Project Like This?

This case study will help readers understand what it takes to bring a redevelopment project to life. These projects are complicated. They require many different people, including city officials, developers, architects, finance experts, and community members, to work together. Each has a specific role, but they must also understand and cooperate with each other to succeed.

What You’ll Learn

This case will take you through the Van Aken District’s development from start to finish. You’ll learn:

• Why and how the project began
• What changes were needed to the street configuration and zoning rules
• Who the different stakeholders were
• How the public was involved
• What funding sources were used
• Why the district rents only to independently owned businesses instead of national chains
• What the final results look like today
• How the development is situated with respect to competing locations in close proximity

By the end of this case, you will better understand how redevelopment works—not just the physical changes, but the decisions, relationships, and teamwork that make it all possible.