In the readings on Sunset Park (specifically, “Industry City”), we are presented with the classic case of a proletariat struggling to stay afloat amidst a juggernautic wave of progressive, plutocratic development. Despite the cynical and sanctimonious protestations of some (i.e. Tarry Hum), who view new luxury residential and retail developments as a mercenary move contra the livelihood interests of the industrial working class, it is apparent from the third reading that steps are being taken by the Jamestown developers to assuage the damage dealt the local job market, namely by uplifting local residents into career-building positions within the new developments, and by offering them education opportunities to increase their marketability, a project undertaken in collaboration with NYCCT and various non-profits. According to this source, this project has successful historical precedent in similar Navy Yard developments, and the project in itself has seen promising success thus far in both employing and informing Industry City residents.
This type of modus operandi is exactly what is needed in New York City today. It is useless and unrealistic to resist the change in markets that New York is experiencing in hopes of preserving antiquated livelihoods. Rather, it is the obligation of the agents of change to provide ways to uplift a stagnant and unprepared populace, as is the case here. If this dual system of progress and nurturing prevails in the upcoming development of Brooklyn’s neighborhoods, there will be a smooth and ethically sound transition into the new age of technology and prosperity.
As has been discussed in a prior reflection, there are overwhelming pros and cons of a technologically advanced future, and I maintain my techno-fatalism in lieu of an optimism or pessimism. If forced to choose however, pessimism is always a far wiser attitude, as it allows for a more prepared stance in the face of chaotic possibility. As regards the near future however, as long as well intentioned, constructive programs such as the one above continue to allow for humanistic development at a steady and nurturing pace, I anticipate a growth in happiness and prosperity among New York’s citizenry– it is only right that, in this pivotal age, we have a chance to bask in the twilight of our existence.
Constructive balance seems to be the key concept, Elijah. I wonder if a large enough number of jobs will be created to absorb the workers who lose their livelihood when factories close. That hasn’t happened anywhere in the world. Historically, workers in that position must migrate or compete for lower-skilled (or differently skilled), lower-paid jobs. Why do you think the developer has taken on the unprecedented chore (precedent only at the Brooklyn Navy Yard in recent years) of working with a CUNY community college to organize a training program? Your team should consider how and why such programs can be set up in the future. BTW are all the jobs permanent, full-time jobs?