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Unraveling the Enigma: African American Homeownership and the Stain of Redlining

By Bradley G. Fagg   Introduction: In my graduate school paper, I delved into a topic that has constantly intrigued me: the enigmatic relationship between the African American community and homeownership. Over the years, I have pondered why homeownership rates for African Americans have lagged behind those of other demographic groups. In this exploration, I sought to understand whether historical redlining practices played a pivotal role in shaping the disparities in African American homeownership. This blog further unravels this complex issue, shedding light on the multifaceted factors that have influenced the African American community's embrace of homeownership while examining the lasting impact of redlining on this crucial aspect of the American dream. In recent years, the issue of whether redlining has emerged as a critical factor perpetuating the disparity in African American homeownership rates in the United States. Despite progress in homeownership rates for other demograph...

Revitalizing Downtown Utah Environmental Benefits of Mixed-Use Development

By Bradley G Fagg   Revitalizing downtown areas in Utah, specifically Provo and Salt Lake City, by replacing older buildings with newer mixed-use developments can bring numerous environmental benefits. This blog post explores how the infusion of higher-density, mixed-use buildings can create more connected and efficient cities while positively impacting the environment.   1. Sustainable Land Use and Efficient Resource Allocation: - Reduced urban sprawl: By infilling outdated areas with new mixed-use developments, downtown areas can avoid outward expansion, preserving valuable open spaces and agricultural land on the outskirts of the cities. - Efficient land use: Higher-density mixed-use buildings maximize land use efficiency, allowing more people to live, work, and access amenities within a compact area. This density reduces the need for long commutes and promotes a walkable lifestyle.   2. Energy Efficiency and Green Building Practices: - Energy savings: Modern mixed-use...

Thoughts on Affordable Housing

  Bradley G Fagg   MRED        My thoughts on Addressing Homelessness in Utah   Problem Statement: The state of Utah is facing a pressing issue of homelessness, with a significant number of individuals and families lacking secure and stable housing. This situation demands a comprehensive and sustainable solution that tackles the root causes of homelessness while providing immediate support to those in need. This executive summary outlines a multifaceted approach that aims to address the homeless problem in Utah effectively.   Objectives: 1. Provide immediate shelter and support: Implement emergency housing solutions to ensure individuals experiencing homelessness have safe and secure places to stay. This includes expanding shelter capacities, establishing temporary housing facilities, and collaborating with community organizations to offer basic necessities such as food, clothing, and healthcare.   2. Promote affordable and permanent housing ...

My why

 As someone who has experienced the pain of injuries from playing sports, I know firsthand how easy it can be to turn to painkillers for relief. However, I count myself lucky that I was able to overcome my need for opioids without having to resort to costly rehab. Unfortunately, many people that I know who have struggled with addiction have not been so lucky and have even lost their lives trying to recover. The tragic loss of my niece Rhiannon Motley underscores the devastating effects of addiction. It all started innocently enough with a C-section for her second child. However, when the pain meds ran out, she turned to other drugs to feed her addiction. Despite her efforts to get help on Methadone, she ultimately passed away before she could overcome her addiction. But rather than sit idly by and watch as others suffer, I’ve decided to become part of the solution. As someone with a Masters degree in Real Estate Development, I’ve realized that one way to do this is by building comm...

My observation using Public transportation for the last month.

  As an individual who has been using public transit to travel between Vineyard and Salt Lake, I have gained a unique perspective on some of the most pressing issues facing our communities. One realization I have had is that the homelessness problem in Utah may be more of a drug problem.   Over the past month, I have witnessed people shooting up drugs multiple times and have seen a lady having convulsions on a sidewalk. As someone who feels deeply for others and is sensitive to their struggles, it is difficult to witness these incidents without wanting to help.   However, it is clear that addressing drug addiction and mental health issues is essential in tackling this crisis. We need a better community drug program rehabilitation program that focuses on helping those struggling with addiction, rather than simply punishing them. Only by addressing the root causes of homelessness can we begin to solve the housing crisis.   On a personal note, I struggle with anxiety an...

Transforming Underutilized Office Buildings into Affordable Housing: A Solution to the Housing Crisis

  Introduction The current housing crisis is a pressing issue that affects countless individuals and communities worldwide. The shortage of affordable housing has led to skyrocketing rents, increasing homelessness rates, and exacerbating social inequalities. However, amidst this crisis, a glimmer of hope lies in an unexpected place: underutilized office buildings. By repurposing these structures into affordable housing, we have the opportunity to address the housing crisis and create sustainable, inclusive communities. In this blog post, we will explore the potential of transforming underutilized office buildings into affordable housing and the benefits it brings. Repurposing Office Buildings for Affordable Housing Underutilized office buildings are often found in urban areas where the demand for affordable housing is highest. These structures, abandoned or operating below capacity, present an untapped resource that can be converted into much-needed living spaces. The ...