30 Years of Change: The Evolution of Neighborhood Dynamics within Ferguson and Surrounding Municipalities

Background/Purpose:The recent events in Ferguson, MO have highlighted the importance of race and segregation in St. Louis, MO. Many municipalities within the northern region of St. Louis County have become predominantly Black over the past few decades. Although the current focus is on the treatment of Black Americans by law enforcement, little mention has been made about the social and economic changes that occurred in North St. Louis County.

This study addresses the socio-demographic changes over a 30-year period from 1980-2010. Ferguson and its nine neighboring municipalities were evaluated to assess whether disinvestment, deindustrialization, and social dislocation have shaped the population within these towns.

As St. Louis and other cities look to ease racial tension, this study analyzes past socio-demographic changes, while offering practical implications in the abatement of future trends.

Methods: Data:This study utilized information from the 1980 - 2000 US Census. In addition, information was utilized from the 2009 – 2013 American Community Survey. Nine municipalities were studied,  including Ferguson and the eight municipalities that border it.

This study also utilized personal observations taken from interviews at Ferguson community meetings. In addition, my own personal accounts as a resident and homeowner have been recorded as well.

Measures: The percentage of Blacks and Whites were measured for population, tenure, employment status, poverty status, and average income. The median income was assessed for all nine municipalities. The rate of change was calculated for each category and municipality. The average income and median home values were adjusted to the 2010 inflation rate for ease of analysis.

All personal testimony was voluntary and came from Ferguson resident-only community meetings.

Results:This study found that significant disinvestment and deindustrialization occurred in Ferguson and its bordering municipalities. All of the municipalities experienced a large rise in the Black population and persistent “White flight”.  Black homeownership increased in the neighboring municipality of Florissant by 1221.4% over 30 years.  Although a vast majority of the municipalities experienced some form of urban decline, Ferguson was the only municipality to retard poverty and unemployment among Black Americans, and experience an increase in the median home value. Personal accounts related that Black Americans felt that the City of Ferguson neglected their needs, while White Americans noted an increase in their level of fear.

Conclusion and Implications:  The findings from this study suggest that North County is an economically viable area that can no longer be neglected. In addition, municipalities must not become lax on municipal services, but strive to provide equal access for all residents. In addition, residential segregation must be confronted at the policy and practice levels.