Definition of the Urban Development Act of 1970
The Urban Development Act of 1970 is U.S. legislation enforced through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) designed to foster sustainable urban growth, improve housing conditions for low-income families, and encourage community development efforts through federal support and funding.
Purpose:
- Establish a National Growth Policy: Aim to provide a framework for balanced development across various urban areas.
- Support Sensible Growth: Encourage investments in metropolitan and inner-city regions that are enduring and environmentally view-friendly.
- Amend Housing Laws: Update and improve existing housing laws to accommodate new policies and methodologies.
- Expand Assistance: Increase funding for housing subsidies targeted at economically disadvantaged groups.
Urban Development Act of 1970 vs Housing Act of 1937
| Feature | Urban Development Act of 1970 | Housing Act of 1937 |
|---|---|---|
| Year Enacted | 1970 | 1937 |
| Focus | Urban development, subsidies | Public housing establishment |
| Aim | Revitalize community and address low-income housing | Provide affordable housing |
| Initiatives | Community Development Corporation, Experimental Housing Allowance | Public Housing Authority, housing projects |
| Outcome | Mixed results regarding subsidy effects | Long-term affordable housing options |
Examples of Initiatives Established:
- Federal Experimental Housing Allowance Program: A federal program which tested the effectiveness of housing allowances.
- Community Development Corporations (CDCs): Non-profit organizations aimed at revitalizing urban communities through direct funding and business investment.
Related Terms:
- Community Development Corporation (CDC): Non-profit organizations that aim to improve social and economic conditions in communities through targeted investments.
- Housing Subsidy: Financial assistance provided by the government to help low-income individuals afford housing.
Fun Fact:
Did you know? The Urban Development Act of 1970 effectively made its name by taking a new path through historic legislation — paving the way, it could say, “Let’s make urban areas great again!”
Humorous Citations:
- “Housing in the U.S. has become a game of Monopoly – you just need to land on Boardwalk!”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the main goal of the Urban Development Act of 1970?
The primary aim is to support and enable sensible growth and urban revitalization across various states and cities in the U.S.
2. How did the act impact housing subsidies?
The act expanded federal assistance to housing subsidy programs, though subsequent findings indicated mixed results regarding their effectiveness.
3. What are Community Development Corporations?
CDCs are non-profit businesses created to invest in and revitalize underdeveloped communities.
4. Is the Urban Development Act still relevant today?
Absolutely! Many principles from the act continue to inform ongoing urban development policies and initiatives.
5. How has public perception influenced changes in urban policies?
Public perception following initiatives often affects urban policies, judging their impacts based on success or failure stories.
Online Resources for Further Study:
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
- National Low Income Housing Coalition
- Books:
- “Urban Land Use Planning” by Philip R. Berke
- “Principles of Urban Housing” by David M. Levin
Important Diagrams
graph TB;
A[Urban Development Act of 1970] --> B[Community Development Corporation]
A --> C[Federal Experimental Housing Allowance Program]
A --> D[National Growth Policy]
D --> E[Balanced Urban Development]
D --> F[Low-Income Housing Support]
Test Your Knowledge: Urban Development Act Quiz 🏙️
Thank you for exploring the Urban Development Act of 1970! Remember, urban growth isn’t just about concrete jungles; it’s about nurturing the human experience within them. 🌆
