The Power To Build

Last month, the Supreme Court ruled that cities had the right to sieze private property for private development, not just public projects. With all the new developments along the river front, the issue is a constant threat to property owners in Hoboken and Jersey City.

Several states have rushed into action to create laws limiting the powers of eminent domain within their borders. The NY Times today writes a piece focusing on Stamford, CT., and the success their programs have had since the mid 1960's in ressurecting the urban core of the city.

The article makes a very good point: eminent domain, particularly in cities, is a useful tool, and without it, urban areas like Jersey City may never have seen a rebirth.

Take for instance the Sixth Ave embankment. The city is set to seize the property under eminent domain laws with area residents hoping the land will be turned into a public park. Without eminent domain laws, its likely the embankment would shortly be converted to condos.

Of course, eminent domain has also been used to erect many of the towers in downtown Jersey City and Hoboken. It can be used to seized your home just as easily as a vacant lot.

But in the end new development is good for the city. It brings new businesses, a larger tax base, and brings more money to the core of the city.