In “Mega-Projects: The Changing Politics of Urban Public Investment”, Altshuler focuses on urban politics and public policy by addressing mega-projects. But what exactly are these mega-projects? He uses this term to describe highways, airports, and rail transit systems, which were endowed by federal programs and federal funding. In Chapter Nine, Altshuler pays close attention to the developments of the twenty-first century and the future of these mega-projects.
At the very beginning of the chapter, Altshuler states how these mega-projects are becoming “increasingly marginal” (270). It seems as if everything is just too expensive to be constructed. The economic recession, decrease in tax revenue, decrease in tourism revenue and decrease in airport, highway, and airline revenues also played a role. I found it surprising that tourism revenue is used to fund sports facilities and convention centers. With the available funds the government does have, beefing up and maintaining security remains a top priority (especially after 9/11). Additional things that are hindering the growth of mega-projects are federal programs that help the poor and elderly.
One thing I found particularly interesting was the “do no harm” imperative. I understand that it is important to not negatively impact businesses or residents in an area where a mega-project will be constructed. Altshuler brings up the example of the expansion of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, which will displace approximately three hundred residential apartments. It violates the “do not harm” norm. The expansion however, is seen to have more pros than cons to better serve the future.
This reminds me of Willets Point, which is home to many auto-body repair shops, scrapyards, and businesses of the same sort. Bloomberg’s Willets Point Redevelopment Project will certainly “do harm” to the workers and business owners of that area. They are forced to relocate and find new jobs. This brings a few questions to mind – to what extent does the “do no harm” imperative apply? Is it okay as long as the benefits outweigh the damages? Is it okay as long as there are government programs to assist in the relocation and training of displaced workers?
Despite the decline in mega-project growth, Altshuler concludes that he does believe the era for them is not over. It may not be like it was during the late twentieth century. There are many shortfalls, but the government is slowly but surely funding new mega-projects. I would have to agree with Altshuler. Examples today are the Barclay’s Center, the Willets Point Redevelopment Project, Hudson Yards, and Atlantic Yards.
