This complexity map explores the interconnected causes and impacts of gentrification in Little Rock, focusing on historic neighborhoods such as those surrounding Little Rock Central High School and communities like Pankey. The project visualizes how historical factors such as redlining and urban renewal connect to modern redevelopment, rising housing costs, and displacement concerns.
By mapping feedback loops and stakeholder interactions, the design highlights the tension between urban revitalization and community preservation. This project strengthened my ability to organize complex research into accessible visual structures and communicate systemic issues through information design.
Reinforcing Loop (Positive Feedback)
Gentrification Growth Loop
This reinforcing loop shows how redevelopment accelerates gentrification. Rising property values lead to higher rents and displacement, which weakens community voice and makes further development easier, continuing the cycle.
This reinforcing loop shows how redevelopment accelerates gentrification. Rising property values lead to higher rents and displacement, which weakens community voice and makes further development easier, continuing the cycle.
Balancing Loop (Negative Feedback)
Community Protection Loop
This balancing loop shows how community advocacy can slow gentrification. Policies that protect housing increase stability and strengthen resident voice, helping reduce displacement over time.
This balancing loop shows how community advocacy can slow gentrification. Policies that protect housing increase stability and strengthen resident voice, helping reduce displacement over time.
