Research focus
Community impacts of Hillcrest’s redevelopment
Hillcrest, San Diego’s historically significant LGBTQ+ neighborhood, is experiencing noticeable changes driven by redevelopment and urban planning. These changes include the introduction of new housing developments, shifts in demographics, and adjustments to the neighborhood’s physical and cultural landscape. While some view these changes as opportunities for growth, others see challenges in preserving the neighborhood’s unique character and community identity.
This project aims to understand how these changes are experienced by the people connected to Hillcrest. Through interviews, observations, and historical research, the study will explore diverse perspectives on the neighborhood’s transformation. It seeks to uncover how redevelopment impacts community belonging, identity, and the use of physical space.
The research will include:
Interviews – Engaging with residents, business owners, and other stakeholders to learn about their views and experiences.
Neighborhood Observation – Documenting how spaces in Hillcrest are being used and how the area feels to those who live, work, and visit.
Historical and Policy Analysis – Studying archival materials and city planning documents to trace the neighborhood’s past and understand its planned future.
The goal is not to advocate for a specific viewpoint but to provide a platform for the voices of those directly connected to Hillcrest. This research will contribute to a deeper understanding of how urban changes are felt by communities and offer insights into the complexities of neighborhood transformation.
For questions, email hillcrest@queergeographies.org.