No. 2383 contracting the boundaries of the West Washington-Chapin Development Area

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o The area's population is fairly stable in terms of length of residence in the study area. According to the U.S. Census, in 1980 approximately two-thirds of the Near Westside's population lived in the same house in which they had resided in 1975. In comparison, approximately 60 percent of the City of South Bend's total population did not change residences between 1975 and 1980. 2. Study Area Problems o The Near Westside is perceived to have a high crime rate, especially by people living outside the area. o The Area's commercial districts along Washington Street near Walnut Street, and Chapin Street just north of Western Avenue are no longer active and consist largely of vacant or underutilized buildings. o The area's housing stock continues to deteriorate, especially in the areas south of Washington Street and west of the historic district. o The area's population continues to decline. According to the U.S. Census, the area lost approximately 31 percent of its population between 1970 and 1980 reaching a total of about 6,563 in 1980.* The area also lost a significant number of households during that period. The total number of households decreased by 27 percent to 2,733 households in 1980. 3. Residential Market Trends o Residential demand in the area appears to be strong. The area is highly desirable by first-time home buyers, especially young black families seeking affordable housing. The incomes of most persons currently attracted to most housing in the area are however low, making the costs of financing housing purchases and ongoing maintenance important concerns for them. * Data area available by census tracts which are not coterminous with the study area boundaries. The census tracts included are tracts 19, 20 and 21. • 2