The Urban Renewal Program was authorized by ordinance in 1957, and the first federal funds allocated for neighborhood studies were received in 1959. The program was designed to eradicate urban "blighted areas" in the City. It was initially administered by the Executive Department, and then transferred to the Department of Community Development in 1969. The Urban Renewal Division was responsible for coordinating federal funds for local projects. Conventional urban renewal funding was designated for four neighborhoods: Yesler-Atlantic, University-Northlake, South Seattle, and Pike Place Market. In addition, Neighborhood Development Program funds targeted Leschi, South Park, and North Greenwood. Despite the early identification of neighborhoods and the adoption of urban renewal plans, most projects did not get underway until the mid- to late 1960s.
Two large volumes with maps illustrating Seattle's housing and population characteristics during the early 1960s. Land Use maps (volume I) show housing conditions, building use, and occupancy levels throughout the city. Topics covered include size and value of vacant land, number and type of dwellings per area and zoning category, and distribution of commercial structures by type (hotels, restaurants, gas stations, department stores, etc.). Census data maps (volume II) detail population and housing characteristics per area based on data from the 1960 U.S. census. Population characteristics include age, marital status, and race. Housing is broken down by topics such as value, condition, size, and whether dwellings are rented or owned.
Records are open to the public.