ECON Seminar: Jhacova Williams, American University

Abstract

Using newly constructed data from historical maps, we exploit variation in interstate length within neighborhoods in New Orleans to document the effect of Interstate 10 on housing outcomes. We show that Black neighborhoods exposed to a longer span of Interstate 10 experienced immediate and persistent declines in occupied housing units, owner-occupied housing units, and median home values. In contrast, White neighborhoods exposed to a longer span of the interstate experienced no significant changes in these housing outcomes. We provide evidence that these findings are due to interstate placement, with routes in Black neighborhoods located closer to the neighborhood center.