Date of Award

Spring 2024

Degree Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

B.S. in Interior Design

Department

Design and Innovation

First Advisor

Kim Buchholz

Second Advisor

Dustin Altschul

Abstract

This analysis explores the complex interplay between Detroit’s infrastructure development, the city’s education system, and their correlation with the historical phenomena of urban sprawl. The city of Detroit has witnessed significant demographic shifts over the decades, driven by factors such as racial tension, socioeconomic disparities, and changing urban landscapes.

The expansion and evolution of Detroit’s roadways has been central to this transformation, which have shaped both physical and social aspects of the city. This study delves into how these transportation networks have contributed to, and in some cases exacerbated, disparities in educational opportunities, access, and quality within the city. It examines the historical context of white flight and the resulting urban sprawl, which affected the distribution of resources and opportunities across different neighborhoods.

Through a multidisciplinary lens, this analysis seeks to shed light on the intricate relationship between infrastructure and education in the urban context, ultimately providing insights that can inform policies and initiatives aimed at addressing these challenges and promoting equitable development within Detroit and beyond.

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