Recently a Cuyahoga County, Ohio 2012 study was brought to my attention. The study contrasts healthcare outcomes in African-American and white communities. Cuyahoga County encompasses Cleveland and other suburban municipalities. The study concluded that low-income residents within Hough, the predominantly African-American inner city Cleveland neighborhood, have a life expectancy of 64 years. Eight miles away in the predominantly white middle class community of Lyndhurst, residents have a life expectancy of 88 years.
The study essentially provides evidence that social determinants such as adequate housing, highly performing schools, livable wages, and healthy food choices literally are a matter of life and death. According to U.S. Census data, Cleveland is 53 percent African-American. Furthermore the average income for an adult is approximately $17,000, and 35 percent of all residents live below the poverty level.

Despite these horrifying statistics, political and business leaders ignore the elephant in the room. It is safer to focus on urban revitalization in a few areas anchored by healthcare institutions and colleges and universities.

These urban innovation districts are believed to be economic development saviors for cities. This is also not unique to Cleveland. Philadelphia, St. Louis, and Detroit are among many cities that are leveraging this approach to revive the urban core. The real compelling narrative is that the masses of citizens have been left behind, especially African-Americans.

Ironically within the problem exists an opportunity for institutions to lead in improving social determinants for all citizens and thus ensuring their own sustainability. Transforming organizational culture in ways that realize benefits for all citizens will ultimately lead to population growth, small business growth, and a revitalized tax base. This innovative model of diversity and inclusion is Smart Inclusion™. Smart Inclusion™ is the missing piece of the puzzle that will inevitably facilitate a sustainable approach to urban revitalization. We are in serious need of the following models among anchor institutions:

• Healthcare Institutions: Developing workforce development partnerships with K-12 schools ensures the next generation of skilled healthcare workers. Improving healthcare outcomes requires a holistic approach.
• Colleges and Universities: Supporting youth STEM programs among marginalized populations establishes a pipeline for new students. Collaborating with community-based organizations can foster new opportunities for innovative research.
• Government: Civic engagement has to be cross-sector, multidisciplinary, and cross-cultural. Local government is integral to Smart Inclusion™.

Equitable urban planning is not merely a social imperative, it is an economic development necessity. It is time that all stakeholders revamp their approach to urban revitalization.