What development strategies are likely to promote the development of vibrant communities throughout the state? Should we offer programs that provide incentives to rehabilitate signature or cornerstone projects downtown, offer discounted debt for façade improvement or mixed-use downtown development, provide incentives to support homeownership development at scale near the community core, or offer rehabilitation financing to preserve owner-occupancy rates in marginal neighborhoods?

The types of activities likely to result in successful revitalization are so diverse, the priorities of different jurisdictions vary so greatly, and our level of resources relative to need so small, that targeting resources to create attractive environments for private investment becomes of utmost importance.

Among the criteria that should frame our work in the community development area include targeting specific geographically designated areas with locally funded redevelopment plans; providing flexibility in use of funds; focusing on strategies that maximize private investment by improving neighborhood markets; and being nimble enough to react quickly to extraordinary circumstances and opportunities.

Implementation Recommendations