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The majority of those interviewed cited crime, or the perception of it, as the greatest liability <br />facing the area. Other responses included: the city abandoned the neighborhood years ago; lack <br />of parks or recreation for youth; the City does not promote its housing rehabilitation programs <br />here; redlining by financial institutions; inconsistent building code enforcement by the City, <br />unemployment and associated loitering. <br />8. a. What kind of businesses are needed in the neighborhood? <br />b. Do you think there is a market for them? <br />Respondents were fairly consistent with regard to the types of businesses they would like <br />to have in the area: a quality grocery, drug store, dry cleaners, laundromat and hardware <br />store were most frequently noted, followed by services such as a shoe repair and gasoline <br />station. While most indicated a strong preference for neighborhood-based commercial <br />development, several of those interviewed suggested that retail could serve as a draw to the <br />area for non- residents. <br />With respect to the market, most gave a qualified "yes," with the qualification being: <br />reduce crime. Several of those interviewed carefully differentiated between what they <br />thought the area needs and their perception that the market may not exist. <br />Do you see a potential for new housing in the area? If yes, what type? <br />Almost all of the respondents saw potential for new housing for lower to moderate income <br />families on infill lots, along with rehabilitation. Although several suggested that higher income <br />people would not choose the area, while others expressed concern about gentrification, there was <br />one suggestion that a limited amount of upscale housing be constructed near the historic district. <br />Most indicated a preference for single-family or rowhouses, with a mix of rental and for- <br />purchase. One respondent, however, questioned the need for any new housing, given the number <br />of boarded-up units in the area. <br />10. What role should the City play to revitalize the Near Westside? <br />The majority of those interviewed responded that the City should play a strong leadership role <br />and commit fiscal resources. However, how they perceive the City's commitment differed <br />sharply: several respondents expressed their desired commitment from the City based on parity <br />with other neighborhoods, while others commented that the City must make a strong commitment <br />for comprehensive action. One respondent suggested that the City provide the funding, but that <br />the neighborhood determine the program. Finally, several commented that the City must enforce <br />the law in the neighborhood to the same extent that it does in other parts of the City. <br />l 1. Other Comments <br />Those interviewed received the opportunity to make additional comments, which included: <br />concern that long-term residents are not abandoned; redlining remains a problem; confidence in <br />the new coalition with the City; a desire to restore the Sandock Building and the Natatorium; <br />despite numerous programs, the area's crime and other problems have gotten worse; displacement <br />has not occurred in the area, but is perceived to be a problem. <br />C7 <br />