Service Deserts and Periphery Neighborhoods in Detroit

Abstract

Before Covid-19, Downtown Detroit was enjoying an urban renaissance, but periphery neighborhoods that were lower priority for revitalization remained “service deserts.” These service deserts resulted in coping strategies, behavioral health outcomes, and neighbors becoming service providers. Residents of these areas also experienced increased vulnerability to the pandemic due to lack of access to information and pre-existing health conditions. This article recounts how residents experience living in a service desert and the subsequent impacts of Covid-19.