Gentrification and degentrification: A case study of Mount Pleasant and the Woodland cluster

This thesis examines the impacts of gentrification and degentrification through an analysis of Mount Pleasant and Woodland, Fort Stanton, Knox Hill and Garfield Heights, for the years of 1980 to 2000. By examining these specific areas, I identify that the process of gentrification and degentrification is occurring simultaneously. Further, specific impacts of the processes on these neighborhoods are identified. The major research strategy utilized is the quantitative analysis of tract-level data, as provided by the Neighborhood Change Database. This thesis argues that the process of gentrification is occurring within Mount Pleasant; however, it is only occurring for certain portions of the population. Simultaneously, degentrification is occurring within the Woodland cluster, which may be a location where displaced residents reside; due to factors such as affordable housing. By identifying the process of gentrification and degentrification, policy recommendations are made in order to mediate the negative impacts, while maintaining the benefits.