The Vacant Lot lists the number of lots in six neighborhoods based on the Planning Department s land code data from 1996. West End 332 Blackstone 70 Map 4 Vacant Lots in South Providence , shows the location of vacant lots in Upper and Lower South Providence. Vacant lots can take up entire blocks on contiguous parcels throughout parts of Upper and Lower South Providence. The prevalence of vacant, blighted land in South Providence, especially in residential areas, can have a devastating effect on the overall character of a neighborhood. These pollutants may be a result of previous uses or illegal dumping on the properties.
Residents complain about the presence of rats and rodents in their homes and neighborhoods.
Vacant, overgrown, littered lots can provide the perfect habitat for vermin. If children are playing on or near lots with vermin, there is the danger of rodent bites. Residents feel that rats diminish their quality of life and their sense of pride about where they live. Lots are often the sites of illicit activities, again because they are not monitored or protected by anyone. I witnessed firsthand how crime can occur on vacant lots.