Neglect, also referred to as “Demolition by Neglect,” is the most insidious cancer on the urban landscape; it communicates a lack of appreciation and respect for those who built our City. The long process of neglect depresses the economy of the neighborhoods, makes citizens feel valueless like the buildings around them, and ultimately leads to the demolition of the buildings because they are “too expensive” to restore. Neglect also leads to the use of empty lots for the dumping of trash.
The pair of Second French Empire style homes was deteriorated by the 1980s. #57 was severely damaged by fire, nearly collapsed, and was demolished. Its twin survived in poor condition until the 2000s when it too was heavily damaged by fire and demolished.