TOADS go to New Jersey: Implications for Land Use and Public Health in Mid-sized and Large US Cities

Abstract

Temporarily obsolete abandoned derelict sites (TOADS) are deserted commercial, industrial and housing properties and unbuilt sites that become toxic waste dumps, makeshift housing for the homeless and crack houses for drugs. TOADS and their associated problems often spread to adjacent neighbourhoods. Using a sample of 21 mid-sized cities in New Jersey, we show that communities with a poor real estate market, many poor, minority residents and a weak economic base are likely to have serious TOADS-related problems. Appropriate research and civic responses are suggested.