City Conversations | The debate about Chinatown: Unique Character and new life?

In the 1970s, residents of Chinatown fought for their neighborhood’s very existence, against a proposed freeway network which would have obliterated it. Since then, city planners say, “it has dealt with community conflicts, economic hardships, shifting population trends, and the decline of nearby areas.”

While those remain, for many the new threat is gentrification, as large new buildings, expensive condos and trendy shops transform Chinatown’s unique character.

For over a decade the city has worked on a revitalization strategy, with millions in grants to preserve historic clan and society buildings, and objectives that are hard to object to. But many object to the results so far. Is there a way to revitalize Chinatown and keep its special charm?

To discuss the way forward, our Presenters are:

Doris Chow, co-founder of the Youth Collaborative for Chinatown; and architect and urban designer Bruce Haden, who has twice chaired the City’s Urban Design Panel. Then it’s your turn to question, observe, and offer your opinions. Please feel free to bring your lunch.