Neighborhood recovery : reinvestment policy for the new hometown

How can we help distressed urban communities recover from a generation of economic loss and reposition themselves for success in today's economy? Although many have proposed solutions to the problems of neighborhoods suffering from economic disinvestment, John Kromer, in his role as Philadelphia's housing director, has actually put solutions to work. Part war story, part how-to manual, and part advocacy for more effective public policy, and community initiative can produce successful and lasting results. Neighborhood Recovery presents a policy approach that cities can use to improve the physical condition of their neighborhoods and help urban residents compete for good jobs in the metropolitan economy. Kromer's experience in Philadelphia reveals challenges and opportunities that can decisively influence the future of neighborhoods in many other American cities. Kromer's framework for neighborhood recovery addresses topics such as: home ownership and financing the role of community-based organizations work-readiness and job training for neighborhood residents housing for homeless people and others with specialized needs ncthe importae of advocacy in advancing neighborhood reinvestment policy How can we help distressed neighborhoods recover from a generation of economic loss and reposition themselves for success in today's economy? While many have proposed solutions to the problems of neighborhoods suffering from economic disinvestment, John Kromer has actually put them to work successfully as Philadelphias housing director. Part war story, part how-to manual, and part advocacy for more effective public policy, Neighborhood Recovery describes how a blending of public-sector leadership and community initiative can bring success to urban communities. Kromers framework for neighborhood recovery addresses issues such as neighborhood strategic planning home ownership and financing the role of community-based organizations public housing work-readiness and job training for neighborhood residents housing for homeless people and others with specialized needs the importance of advocacy in influencing and advancing neighborhood reinvestment policy. Neighborhood Recovery presents a policy approach that cities can use to improve the physical condition of their neighborhoods and help urban residents compete for good jobs in the metropolitan economy. Kromers experience in Philadelphia reveals challenges and opportunities that can decisively influence the future of neighborhoods in many other American cities. One winter morning, a few years before his election and several more years before Al Gore dubbed him "America's Mayor," I stood in line behind Ed Rendell at the A-Plus Mini Market at Ridge and Midvale. John Kromer. Includes Bibliographical References (p. 245-248) And Index.