I’ve no idea of the condition of these 10K buildings but Detroit is full of homes that would cost more to properly renovate than they would ever be worth.
While knocking down the homes alone won’t make things better it is a sign that, finally, Detroit get’s just how much trouble they are in. Right now Detroit needs some seriously good urban planning if they want to save the city
1) Getting rid of the homes that can not be salvaged and *giving* the land to the adjacent homeowner (if the owner lives there) on the condition that the property is properly cared for (landscaped/maintained) for a decade
2) If the lot(s) are big enough give the land land to small businesses or corporations who will serve the neighborhoods with near by jobs and services. This can and should include corporations that have small footprint shops and stores.
3) Forgiving all real estate taxes on the property given to business that employ people who live in Detroit.
4) Reduce the size of government by reducing council seats
5) Increase the number of charters granted for charter schools that are neighborhood based to reduce the cost of busing.
60 years ago, the city of Hiroshima was a total wreck with no buildings left standing and people starving everywhere.
60 years ago, Detroit was one of the world’s most thriving cities and the industrial engine of the USA. 80% of the world’s automobiles and engines were made in Detroit. The city had a vibrant, thriving cultural scene as well.
Now, 60 years later, as we look at Hiroshima vs Detroit, we might as well ask ourselves -— who the heck won the war?
When I used to work on Detroit's east side thru the end of 2006, I would pass blocks of vacant land that had only a few houses left on it. Those home owners weren't even taking care of their own property let alone anything else that might be given to them under "conditions"......
The majority of the people left in Detroit who are currently not working are unemployable........
I do and you are right. You CAN buy a house for $7,000 and even less but you would have to invest another $20,000 in remodeling it.........