Area Redevelopment Programs for Economic Growth

Under the Area Redevelopment Act of 1961, redevelopment areas—generally counties —prepare Overall Economic Development Programs in order to be eligible for assistance from the Area Redevelopment Administration. Despite many worthwhile achievements under the Act, the strong emphasis on county units has limited the effectiveness of development programs. ARA' s efforts are spread thin over almost 900 counties, many of which have little potential for growth. A broader approach, grouping counties into more viable “redevelopment regions,” would reduce the number of units with which ARA deals, permit greater attention to each unit, and result in some growth potential for every region. With this approach, which might constitute a second stage of area redevelopment planning, the ARA could make greater and more lasting contributions to economic growth.