Flight Paths: Mapping Our Changing Neighborhoods

FAIN: MD-253242-17

Valparaiso University (Valparaiso, IN 46383-4520)
Allison E. Schuette (Project Director: June 2016 to March 2021)

Development of an interactive website that examines the impact of de-urbanization in the Rust Belt revealed by the changing racial and socioeconomic demographics of Gary, Indiana.

Flight Paths is a multi-media initiative where participants engage and analyze factors contributing to de-urbanization and the fracturing of neighborhoods in post-industrial America specifically Gary, Indiana. An interactive website will explore the impact of white and green flight in the region, and will include a rich array of historical material and first-person stories. Users will juxtapose the stories of “neighbors” and analyze the sociopolitical and economic factors of de-urbanization. Users will be able to upload mental maps,stories,photographs, and an innovative map interface where they will visually experience “flight” paths of residents from the 1960s to present. Public exhibitions and toolkits for community conversations will help participants more deeply understand the ongoing impact of de-urbanization and the interconnected nature of regional life in the presence of neighbors with whom new civic relationships can be forged, potentially catalyzing participants for civic change.

Media Coverage

Valparaiso University professor using personal stories to tell Region's history (Media Coverage)
Author(s): Joyce Russell
Publication: Northwest Indiana Times
Date: 11/16/2017
Abstract: Describes the Welcome Project's Flight Paths initiative which received NEH funding and will be additionally supported by Valparaiso University's Kapfer Research Award.
URL: http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/porter/valparaiso-university-professor-using-personal-stories-to-tell-region-s/article_095589f1-7b4c-5bb5-b9ff-1d2f5aa7bca2.html