The objective of this study is to understand why planning and development strategies have failed to address and prevent the unprecedented conditions of historical social fragmentation, economic decline, and environmental destitution currently present in the city of Gary. Evidence suggests a complicated set of historical structural and cultural factors have contributed to the severe environmental, social, and economic distress and disinvestment seen in inner-city neighborhoods throughout the United States, specifically Gary, Indiana. Understanding and reflecting on the historical development discourse within American Capitalism and the social construction of race as contributors to the current conditions of Gary, only then can planners consider the adverse effects of this discourse in present environmental, social and economic conditions. Ultimately through utilizing ethnographic methods, a crucial missing element in planning strategies, opportunities for planning and development in post-industrial Gary, Indiana are explored as an approach to planning in the absence of development. / Review of related literature -- Discourse of development within American capitalism -- Social construction of race in Gary -- The potentials and limitations of planning? / Department of Urban Planning