Summary
The article discusses how infrastructure projects in the United States, like the interstate highway system, historically contributed to racial segregation. It highlights how laws and policies that seemed neutral on paper often allowed for discriminatory practices, particularly affecting Black communities.
Key Facts
- Negotiations are happening in Washington for new infrastructure investments.
- The 1956 Federal-Aid Highway Act started the creation of a nationwide highway system.
- Route decisions were made by local officials, impacting minority neighborhoods.
- Many Black neighborhoods were labeled "blighted" to justify their destruction for highway development.
- Urban renewal programs often displaced Black communities disproportionately.
- Housing policies in the 1930s discouraged lending in racially diverse areas.
- Highways were used to stabilize white neighborhoods and separate Black communities.
- Infrastructure decisions have long-lasting impacts on community segregation.
