Fordham Law School Forum On Columbia University West Harlem/Manhattanville Construction Project: Weds. March 30, 2011

The Battle for Harlem. Gentrification, eminent domain, & the historic neighborhood's struggle with Columbia University

Date(s): 03.30.11 | Wednesday
Time: 4:30-6pm
Location: Room 203

Produced by Stein Scholars; co-sponsored by Housing Advocacy Project; all law school community invited.
Gentrification, eminent domain, & the historic neighborhood's struggle with Columbia University.
FLS Professor Brian Glick will moderate a discussion with panelists:
Larry English, Chair of Community Board 9 (West Harlem);
Tom DeMott, Harlem resident, Coalition to Preserve Community member;
Ramon Diaz, business owner, Floridita Restaurant;
Peter Marcuse, planner & lawyer, Professor Emeritus of Urban Planning @ Columbia.

The residents of West Harlem have long fought a battle for community preservation and affordable housing. Columbia University’s plan to expand its campus gradually over the next 25 years involves the use of eminent domain. Parts of Manhattanville are rezoned for mixed use to encourage investment by expanding the campus and providing new development, which may economically revitalize the area. Some businesses, such as Floridita Restaurant, have been relocated and community members in West Harlem fear the plan poses a threat to the gentrification of residents and other businesses. The Battle for Harlem event presented by the Stein Public Interest Program and co-sponsored by the Housing Advocacy Project will bring all sides of the debate, such as attorney, residents of Harlem, board members and more, together to discuss concerns and a way forward.

Contact: Andrew Chapin
Telephone: 212-636-7849
Email: achapin@law.fordham.edu