Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, urban renewal policies largely destroyed Greenwood Lk City. Redevelopment policies, such as eminent domain and rezoning, destroyed homes and ruined property values, and racist redlining prevented new capital from entering the city. Today, Human Rights Watch is calling for reparations to these communities. But what were the consequences of such policies? Is there a solution?
Several African American families eventually settled in the area. Around 1902, William Linzy, a porter on the Union Pacific Railroad, met Gladys across the street. He heard that the railroad was selling 600 acres in the area, and that building across creeks would be too expensive. He bought 32 acres of land, at $50 an acre. He lived in a small cabin until he married his first wife, Gladys, in 1908.
The United States Census Bureau provides a variety of information about Greenwood Lk, including demographic data. You can see the city's current population, as well as the projected growth in the next decade. Also, check out the town's public schools, as they are located in the town's central business district. This school district is home to the famous movie, Final Destination 2.
The Greenwood Lk city was once a thriving Black community. The Black population in this area was probably the richest community in the United States. Yet, it was perceived by white communities as an existential threat to their communities. Threats of lynching and clashes between armed groups led to violent violence. And that's not all! There are still a few reasons why Greenwood's growth is a problem for the city.