It seems like a move toward sustainability. My work on this project and others leads me to believe that the main organizing tool for community is the automobile and how far you can get in 20-30 minutes. People speak highly of neighborhoods but there is a low priority for action to center their lives there. During the UMKC crisis mentioned attendance at neighborhood meetings went from 10-20 up to an estimated 500 because people wanted to continue to live where they were. After UMKC altered its demolition plans the meetings went back to their previous small numbers.
Local owners give the area a neighborhood flavor.
Over the years the shops along Troost Avenue have closed as malls with national chains have taken their business. In order to get food, prescriptions, hardware and most other services, residents must drive or take the bus. Many local merchants are concerned that they will have to quit business.