Spaces & Flows: Ninth International Conference on Urban and ExtraUrban Studies

Abstract

Hurricane Sandy devastated key areas of New York City in 2013. Over 23,000 businesses were impacted by the storm, totaling approximately 8.6 billion in damages. With so many restrictions and technicalities on government funding, the Hurricane Sandy Storefront Program provided 1.1 million dollars for storefront redevelopment. The program had a one-year timeline, with quick construction turnaround and simple and clean storefront design. The program provided quality and economical designs for storefronts, one-on-one assistance to low income and minorities, and an overall participatory approach to trigger corridor revitalization and development. With recognizable impact and benefits, it is interesting to research and study if a similar approach could trigger the same effect in a developing city like Karachi. Karachi comprises of several small businesses, which are at risk due to gentrification and the growing trend of department and chain stores. The case study will hone in on two streets, employing a participatory planning approach. Through community integration, small business engagement and local artists, and sensitive design, I identify issues particular to our context, proposing simple, creative, and economical solutions. This study proves how streets in developing countries can act as an instrument of urban transformation.