Social sustainability of rural community well-being and designing a planning process that will minimize the negative impacts of "Big Box" retailers
Graduation Date
2006
Document Type
Thesis
Program
Other
Program
Thesis (M.A.)--Humboldt State University, Research and Graduate Studies, Sociology, 2006
Committee Chair Name
Judith K. Little
Committee Chair Affiliation
HSU Faculty or Staff
Keywords
Humboldt State University -- Theses -- Sociology, Big-box retailers, Rural development, Planning process, Retail chain stores
Abstract
All over the United States, "Big Box" retail chain stores are being built. Historically, these were built in large urban centers. However, in the past fifteen years, these "Big Boxes" have been moving into rural areas having enormous impacts on smaller mom and pop owned retailers and down town areas of small towns. This case study explores the historical economic trends and cultural influences on a proposed site of a "Big Box" in one rural location. Rather than rehashing the negative impacts of "Big Box" retailers on small rural communities, this study will document the positive (if any) effects that such a development can have on community well-being in a rural community when stakeholders participate in its design. By carefully examining the dynamics of addressing economic diversity, cultural diversity, local governing bodies, local merchants and power elites, the primary objective of this project is to be pro-active in designing a planning process that will ensure the minimization of negative impacts of "Big Boxes." The goal is to provide ways to protect existing culture, character and uniqueness of a place when a community considers accepting a large retail enterprise.
Recommended Citation
Campbell, Margaret R., "Social sustainability of rural community well-being and designing a planning process that will minimize the negative impacts of "Big Box" retailers" (2006). Cal Poly Humboldt theses and projects. 1645.
https://digitalcommons.humboldt.edu/etd/1645
https://scholarworks.calstate.edu/concern/theses/9w032521n