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Inside East Riverside
Asheville, North Carolina
1966
 

         
[Cover] Section I: East Riverside Community Profile- The total Community
Special Collections, D.H. Ramsey Library, UNCA

Ruth L. Mace, Chapel Hill, N.C.

The study findings are divided into two sections.  First, Mace addresses the findings of the survey.  Questions include aspects of family and neighborhood life such as medical care, recreational activities and facilities, employment, salary, job satisfaction, transportation, housing, attitudes towards the neighborhood, and willingness to move.  These findings were summarized for the general community and for the special needs groups of the elderly, the very poor, and the white minority.  These findings are later broken down into specifically looking at the attitudes and characteristics of the people in relocation households (about 1700 people in 524 houses, or roughly half of the East Riverside community).  Maps showing the geographic distribution of selected findings are included.  Part Two contains recommendations, both general ones that should be implemented regardless of whether urban renewal goes forward, and also plans specifically geared towards renewal programming.  Three appendices are included:  a copy of the survey questionnaire, summary tables, and suggestions for neighborhood improvement gleaned from local high school seniors. 

Among its more poignant results, the study found that while 44% of residents said they would move away from East Riverside if they had the chance, 90% were willing to attend meetings to discuss ways to improve the neighborhood.  Knowledge of the renewal plans was inconsistent, with many residents knowing little to nothing about the particulars.  Those in homes slated for relocation knew less than their neighbors and had a higher level of confusion and negative reaction against renewal plans.  Of the white families to be relocated, for instance, 9 out of 10 misunderstood or knew nothing about the renewal and relocation program.  In light of the widespread ignorance or misconceptions of the renewal plan, many of the recommendations address ways to educate East Riverside residents on the changes to take place. 

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