Shared Stakes: Urban Renewal in Kalamazoo and Detroit

Abstract

Kalamazoo and Detroit have elected in recent years to stimulate their economies through classical theories of human capital investment or job growth techniques. With low educational standards and poor employment rates plaguing both cities, their economic revitalization plans aim to alleviate both issues. Kalamazoo is stimulating their human capital with a regional scholarship program under the assumption it will create a desirable place for businesses to operate. Detroit, on the other hand, focuses on job creation to attract qualified workers. Both have the same ultimate goals: high employment rates, an educated workforce, and overall economic and social progress. Yet, they have elected structurally inverse techniques. It is difficult to predict whether which system will be the most successful over the coming years, as both efforts are still in development stages. Notwithstanding, it is most crucial that the organizations, public and private, and the general support views the plans as essential and voice their support. If the community align to reinforce the economic goals of the region, neither Kalamazoo nor Detroit will experience and real economic progress.