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Abstract
New Orleans communities are being rebuilt in response to a variety of post-Katrina redevelopment needs. Construction ranges from restoring/renovating individual homes to rebuilding entire neighborhoods. Concerns for retaining authentic character in one of Americas most historic cities initiated an investigation into whether the small town center, called Rivertown, now a part of the New Orleans suburban City of Kenner, Louisiana can regain authenticity, social equity, and economic vitality using Smart Growth.The theoretical framework of Smart Growth is prescribed for the study as it is inclusive of a variety of redevelopment scenarios that include recycled assets with infill development, Traditional Neighborhood Design (TND) development, and Enclave redevelopment. Three case studies from south Louisiana are evaluated for their value in creating whole communities. These are used to develop a redevelopment plan for Rivertown. The importance of social equity in redevelopment and value of the built environment in marginalized neighborhoods is recognized as an essential part of successful redevelopment with authenticity.