The objective of this research was to examine several questions regarding the effective Area Redevelopment Committee and the role it plays in community affairs. The ARA has defined the role and function of the Area Redevelopment Committee and has developed some general evaluative concepts regarding committee effectiveness. However, specific research was needed to (1) identify criteria and develop measures which could be used in evaluating the effectiveness of Area Redevelopment Committees; (2) identify the correlates of differential committee effectiveness; and (3) determine the extent to which the Area Redevelopment Committee assumes the leadership role in community economic redevelopment efforts. The study was oriented towards discovering (a) the patterns underlying committee structure and operation, (b) the extent to which committees are functioning as prescribed and how they are evaluated in the community, and (c) the circumstances associated with success or failure. Thus, the main focus was on identifying those aspects of committee structure and behavior which contribute to successful committee functioning. (Tables, figures, and appendixes are included.) (authors/ly)