Citation

Yue Zhang. Urban Aff. Rev. 2011; 47(4): 511-540.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/1078087411400376

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article examines how the structure of local political representation defines the interest of political actors and affects the outcomes of urban preservation. Although urban preservation is proposed as a strategy of community development in two Chicago neighborhoods (Pilsen and Bronzeville), the outcomes vary significantly. The author argues that the distinct boundaries of aldermanic power play a critical role in shaping the policy process of landmark designation. Aldermanic prerogative gives each alderman veto power over the preservation initiatives in his or her ward. The preservation initiatives within one ward are more likely to receive political support than those across multiple wards. By revealing the mismatch of boundaries between wards and community areas, the study demonstrates the negative impact of political fragmentation on urban preservation.