Work

Exposing Freeway Inequalities in the Suburbs: The Cases of Pasadena and Pacoima

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: U.S. freeways have come under scrutiny for their adverse impacts on low-income neighborhoods of color, primarily in urban centers. This article offers a comparative historical analysis of the impact of freeways on two communities in Southern California, which were ethnically diverse suburbs. Planning authorities in Pasadena and Pacoima chose freeway routes that displaced a greater share of households of color than the proposed alternatives. Meanwhile, neighboring white, wealthier communities successfully influenced routing decisions in consequential ways. Beyond the visible and immediate effects of the freeways, social inequity and environmental degradation persist in both neighborhoods today.

Source: Journal of Planning History

DOI: 10.1177/15385132241265974

Authors: Andres F. Ramirez, Emmanuel Proussaloglou, Anastasia Loukaitou-Sideris, Jacob L. Wasserman

Institution: University of California, Los Angeles

Language: English

Topic: Environmental Justice and Health Disparities

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,450