Sure, I can help with that. Here are the answers to the questions based on the provided article:

### Questions:

1. **What are the main goals of urban renewal?**
- The main goals of urban renewal are to improve the overall appearance and functionality of areas that have fallen into decline. This includes revitalizing downtown areas, renovating historical buildings, creating pedestrian-friendly zones, enhancing public transportation, attracting residents and tourists, boosting local economies, and creating sustainable environments.

2. **How does sustainability feature in urban renewal projects?**
- Sustainability features in urban renewal projects through the incorporation of green spaces, energy-efficient buildings, and waste reduction initiatives. These components are now standard in urban renewal efforts to ensure that developments are environmentally friendly and sustainable in the long term.

3. **Why is community involvement important in urban renewal?**
- Community involvement is important in urban renewal because residents' input can ensure that developments meet their needs and preserve the cultural heritage of the area. This helps in creating projects that are more aligned with the community's desires and requirements.

4. **What is a potential negative consequence of urban renewal?**
- A potential negative consequence of urban renewal is gentrification, which can displace long-term residents due to rising living costs. This occurs when the redevelopment of an area makes it more expensive to live in, pushing out the original inhabitants.

5. **How can city planners balance development and affordability?**
- City planners can balance development and affordability by carefully planning and implementing policies that ensure new developments are accessible to a wide range of income levels. This might include affordable housing initiatives, rent control measures, and ensuring that new developments do not disproportionately favor higher-income residents.

### Essay:

**Impact of Urban Renewal on Local Communities**

Urban renewal projects have a significant impact on local communities, bringing both positive and negative effects. On the positive side, urban renewal can revitalize declining areas, making them more attractive and functional. This often leads to improved infrastructure, better public transportation, and enhanced public spaces, which can boost the local economy by attracting businesses, tourists, and new residents. Additionally, the focus on sustainability in modern urban renewal projects means that these developments are more environmentally friendly, incorporating green spaces, energy-efficient buildings, and waste reduction initiatives.

However, urban renewal can also have negative consequences, particularly in the form of gentrification. As areas are redeveloped and improved, property values and living costs can rise, making it difficult for long-term residents to afford to stay in their homes. This displacement can lead to a loss of community and cultural heritage, as original inhabitants are forced to move to more affordable areas. The social fabric of the community can be disrupted, leading to tensions between new and old residents.

To mitigate the negative impacts of urban renewal, city planners need to adopt strategies that balance development with affordability. One approach is to include affordable housing units in new developments, ensuring that a portion of the housing remains accessible to low- and middle-income residents. Rent control measures can also help to prevent sudden spikes in living costs. Additionally, involving the community in the planning process can ensure that developments meet the needs of existing residents and preserve the cultural heritage of the area.

Another strategy is to implement policies that support small businesses and local entrepreneurs, helping them to thrive in the newly developed areas. This can create job opportunities and maintain the unique character of the community. Finally, providing social services and support for displaced residents can help to ease the transition and ensure that they have access to affordable housing and other resources.

In conclusion, while urban renewal can bring many benefits to local communities, it is essential to address the potential negative impacts through careful planning and community involvement. By balancing development with affordability and preserving the cultural heritage of the area, city planners can create sustainable and inclusive urban environments that benefit all residents.