How a music scene functioned as a tool for urban redevelopment: A case study of Omaha's Slowdown project

Music scenes are increasingly included in the discourse of how art and culture function as tools for economic development, but they are rarely discussed in terms of being catalysts for urban redevelopment. This gap in the literature is important to address as music-based urban redevelopment projects gain traction in the United States. One recent example is the “Slowdown” project in Omaha, Nebraska. This paper will offer insight into how a successful music scene can function as a catalyst for urban redevelopment by examining the $10.2 million dollar mixed-use Slowdown project and its connection to Omaha's music scene. Laissez-faire public policy, low cost-of-living, and inexpensive technological tools all played roles in the development of a local music scene capable of reaching international significance and fostering a project the magnitude of Slowdown.

Research highlights► Music scenes can function as catalytic tools for urban redevelopment projects. ► Public policy regarding music should be laissez-faire, focusing on prior successes. ► Affordable technology and a low cost-of-living helped Omaha's music scene to grow.