What went wrong with Pruitt-Igoe?

What went wrong with Pruitt-Igoe?

Pruitt-Igoe was a public housing project in St. Louis that faced numerous issues leading to its failure. It was plagued by poor design, lack of maintenance, and social problems.

What specific design flaws contributed to its downfall?

The design included high-rise buildings with long corridors, which made it difficult to monitor safety. The isolation of the buildings also contributed to a sense of community breakdown.

How did the social issues affect the residents?

Social issues like poverty, unemployment, and racial segregation created a challenging environment. Many residents felt trapped in a cycle of despair, leading to increased crime and vandalism.

Was there any attempt to fix the problems?

Yes, there were attempts to address the issues, including community programs and renovations, but they were often underfunded and insufficient to make a lasting impact.

What lessons can we learn from Pruitt-Igoe?

Pruitt-Igoe teaches us the importance of thoughtful urban planning, community involvement, and ongoing maintenance in public housing projects.