distressed area

American  

noun

1. a region so severely damaged by a flood, hurricane, or other natural catastrophe that its inhabitants need food, clothing, shelter, and economic aid from national charities or the federal government.

2. depressed area.

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Etymology

Origin of distressed area

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

The city is using a transfer of development rights as the carrot — meaning if you build here in this difficult, distressed area, we’ll grant you some opportunities over there.

From Seattle Times

A day later, Ms. Hochul, during a breakfast with legislators at the governor’s mansion in Albany, spoke optimistically about the potential job creation bonanza in the economically distressed area.

From New York Times

It has the backing of local elected officials, business leaders in southern New Jersey and, perhaps most significantly, labor unions that argue it will bring jobs to a distressed area.

From Washington Post

Much of the area east of Old Dominion University, known as Highland Park, is designated by the state as an “enterprise zone,” an economically distressed area in need of revitalization.

From Washington Times

“The Opportunity Zone designation allows MidCity to drive substantial capital into an economically distressed area, spurring economic development and job creation, and creating new housing and affordable units where there are none presently,” Stephanie Liotta-Atkinson, a MidCity executive vice president, said in a statement.

From Washington Post