Socio-Economic Disparity

Planning District I, the area south of Mercury Boulevard, and parts of Planning District III have severe socio-economic problems compared to the rest of the City. The following table shows the extent of this disparity.  This is not just a problem for Planning District I or III. The whole City suffers. Fewer skilled and productive workers, higher crime rates and physical deterioration hurt the city's image and make it more difficult to attract new industry to the City. A weakened tax base and the increased burden of social services can result in higher taxes and fewer public services. It will benefit all citizens to reduce poverty and unemployment in Planning District I and in all other geographic areas in Newport News where high rates of poverty and unemployment exist.

The City and its Economic/Industrial Development Authority (NNEDA/IDA) have taken steps to try to reduce this disparity and will continue to do so.  The NNEDA/IDA is currently in the process of facilitating the private development of the Southeast Commerce Center, between Jefferson and Terminal Avenues, for a mixed use development with a grocery store.

Table 2-1 Socio-economic Disparities Comparison Planning District I / City Source: U.S. Census, 2000

Socio-economic Comparison		  

Planning District I

 

City

Unemployment Rate

10.7%

3.9%

Poverty Rate

32.6%

9.2%

Average Household Income*

$22,384

$38,710

Single Parent Household

21.4%

12.5%

Without High School Diploma

33.2%

12.1%

Households without Telephone

7.2%

2%

Households without Automobile

28.8%

7%