Curbs are crumbling. Roads have been patched. Though many of the homes are well-kept, residents complain about persistent problem properties where grass is overgrown, paint is chipping or police pay far too many visits. Aside from the problems, there is reason for hope. Young families are moving into many of the affordable homes an older generation is leaving behind.
Residents chat proudly about their remodeling projects and their gardens.
Several like the fact they are within walking distance of downtown or that they can make some money by renting out a portion of the homes they live in. Still others want to ensure their kids have a safe place to grow up. Residents here realize they have to remain vigilant, otherwise their inner-city neighborhood may succumb to encroaching commercial development and urban decay. One out of three homes here is a rental, and several of those properties have absentee landlords. However, residents have taken action.