Bridging Blocks | Gentrification: Prosperity or Displacement? 

Gentrification has been present in urban areas for over 60 years, changing economic and demographic landscapes all over the United States. It is particularly relevant in larger cities that experience significant population growth. 

A 2025 report by the National Community Reinvestment Coalition states that Philadelphia is one of the cities most affected by neighborhood racial turnover and displacement. Others include Washington, D.C.; New York City and New Orleans.

Is there a way to reap the benefits of neighborhood revitalization while avoiding social and economic disparities? How does gentrification affect affordability and housing scarcity? Is neighborhood culture dead? 
 

Join WHYY News Community & Engagement team for Bridging Blocks, a civic dialogue series in partnership with The Free Library of Philadelphia.

Host - Tony Cuffie Senior Manager Community & Engagement, WHYY News

Moderator - Brisa Luzzi Castro Community Convener, WHYY News

Bridging Blocks, a partnership between The Free Library of Philadelphia and WHYY, is made possible by a generous grant from Fred and Barbara Sutherland.