the conversion of old factories for new uses retooling, urban renewal, or urban pioneering? urban renewal?

http://www.dubinresidential.com/site/epage/19973_482.htm

I lean toward urban pioneering, although I'm not clear on the difference between it and urban renewal.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urban_renewal

The conversion may be the urban renewal while the people who live in these buildings may constitute urban pioneering.

Yes, the conversion of old factories for new uses can be considered a form of urban renewal. Urban renewal refers to the process of revitalizing and rejuvenating urban areas by improving infrastructure, renovating or repurposing old buildings, and enhancing the overall quality of life in a neighborhood or city.

To determine the answer to your question, we can break down the different terms mentioned:

1. Retooling: Retooling typically refers to the process of updating or modifying production equipment and systems in a factory or industrial setting to adapt to new technologies, production methods, or market demands. While retooling can be a part of the conversion process, it focuses more specifically on upgrading manufacturing processes rather than the overall transformation of the building or surrounding area.

2. Urban pioneering: Urban pioneering refers to the practice of individuals or organizations moving into and revitalizing neglected or underdeveloped urban areas. This often involves converting old buildings into new uses, such as turning abandoned factories into residential lofts, art galleries, or co-working spaces. While urban pioneering may encompass the conversion of old factories, it is a broader concept that encompasses multiple aspects of urban revitalization beyond just factory conversion.

In summary, the term that specifically relates to the conversion of old factories for new uses, and the one used in the context you provided, is urban renewal.