Transforming the Urban Economy

This course focuses on the development of cities and transformative initiatives, especially New York City. In this course, a wide array of economic development projects and strategies will be examined. It will take a look at the core economic goals that were set forth nearly two decades ago in an effort to diversify the economy and make it less dependent on financial services, while examining the challenges faced by cities today in light of the COVID 19 pandemic.

Land use policy, use of incentives, new developments, placemaking initiatives, and approaches to district management will also be studied. Students will get a broad understanding of how economic development tools and tactics have been leveraged to revitalize central business districts, neighborhoods, the waterfront and public spaces.

This course will review the effectiveness of public-private partnerships including business improvement districts (BIDs) local development corporations, and park conservancies.  New York City is the home of the largest network of (BIDs) in the world. During the course, we will also examine how anchor institutions (universities, hospitals, cultural organizations) are playing an increased role in community revitalization.  Students will be able to assess various economic development strategies through the use of case studies, articles, and guest speakers.