Part 7/11:
Beyond economic indicators, the city’s social fabric shows signs of strain. Homelessness and drug addiction have become entrenched problems, particularly in neighborhoods like Tenderloin, where visible homelessness and criminal activity dominate the streets. Incidents of public urination, defecation, and drug use at prominent landmarks detract from the urban revitalization efforts and scare away potential investors and residents.
The decline extends to urban infrastructure, with malls like the Westfield Center experiencing vacancy rates exceeding 95%, effectively turning the property into a ghostly shell. These deteriorations further depress property values and feed the downward spiral.