Transit-Oriented Development and Gentrification: A Case Study Examining the Cultural Effects on a Historically Black Neighborhood in Denver, Colorado

Abstract

This qualitative single case study research project was conducted to understand how the culture of the historically black Five Points neighborhood in Denver, Colorado was impacted by transit-oriented development and gentrification. While there have been multiple studies on displacement caused by gentrification, a gap in knowledge existed about the cultural impact gentrification had on the original residents who continued to reside in the community after gentrification had occurred. This study added knowledge to the general body of literature regarding the gentrification of historically black communities. The specific problem examined was that the culture changes that likely happened were the result of outsiders moving into the community and displacing historical community members which may have negatively impacted the social networks, community durability, and overall quality of life for those who remained in the gentrified community. This issue was problematic for black community members who have remained in gentrified communities and for the human services professionals who provide support to this population. To conduct a thorough analysis of the topic and to ensure method triangulation, the study drew primarily on in-depth qualitative interviews with community residents; however, secondary data such as systematic observations of the presence of three factors within the neighborhood and historical U.S. Census Bureau data which speak to the drastic change in demographics within the Five Points neighborhood from 1992 to 2018 were also analyzed. Internal colonialism was considered in theory and practice as it related to the occurrences in the Five Points neighborhood because of the significant and inherent role played by race relations, policies, and economics. Findings from this study were in direct alignment with internal colonialism theory studies conducted by other researchers who found that colonialism is comprised of cultural domination, political subjection, racial exclusion, and economic exploitation.