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Johnson Brings Magic to Urban Development

Basketball legend's fund has raised $1B, despite realty slump

By Sam Gale Rosen, Newser Staff

Posted Apr 16, 2008 2:29 PM CDT

(Newser) – Amid the subprime and recession chaos sits a gleaming urban development fund that has banked $1 billion with basketball legend Magic Johnson at the helm. The Canyon-Johnson Urban Fund has already completed major projects in Hollywood and Chicago, reports the LA Times, and, Johnson says, "The potential for revitalization in ethnically diverse communities is nearly limitless."

The fund is thriving, despite the national real estate slump. "Demand for affordable housing and community-serving retail is only going to increase," says Bobby Turner, a managing partner. Johnson says he listens closely to urban residents about what they want in their neighborhoods. "We don't just go in and build what we want," he says.

Basketball player Earvin "Magic" Johnson laughs as he signs autographs. (AP Photo/David Lienemann)

"The potential for continued revitalization in ethnically diverse communities is nearly limitless," says Johnson. (KRT Photos)

Magic Johnson arrives for the NBA All Star Basketball Gala Saturday, Feb. 16, 2008, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

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Johnson Brings Magic to Urban Development

Basketball legend's fund has raised $1B, despite realty slump

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Basketball legend's fund has raised $1B, despite realty slump

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

Magic Johnson • Canyon-Johnson Urban Fund • urban development

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

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More Newser Stories

Obama, NBA Stars Play Hoops for Troops

'Wounded warriors' watch; reporters boxed out

Khloe Kardashian Meets Obama

White House ceremony honors NBA champion Lakers

Black Caucus Openly Feuds With Obama

Members boycott a financial overhaul vote as a warning

Magic Johnson: Isiah Spread Rumors I Was Gay

Thomas denies accusation, feels 'really hurt'

Spooky Universal Pattern Captivates Math Experts

Academics ponder similarities between cities and organisms

About Us

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Newser By Users

Community

Site Maps

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What is Newser?