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Demolition & Revitalization Efforts Impact Property Values

After decades of job and population losses and the foreclosure crisis of recent years, Mahoning County has thousands of forgotten, neglected, debt-laden parcels that decrease neighboring property values and increase maintenance costs for cities, townships and villages. County land banks can acquire these distressed properties and clear the titles, which makes it more attractive for new owners or users to invest in them.

We have demolished more than 1,100 vacant and blighted houses in Mahoning County and have heard from city officials, investors, real estate professionals and community members that our work has favorably impacted these neighborhoods on an economic level.

Repurposed Land Creates Sense of Community

By replacing vacant, blighted places with productive, flexible spaces, people are more likely to gather in these areas.

The Land Bank has landscaped post-demolition properties to create “flex parks,” which have been used for community block parties, seasonal events, family and community get-togethers, as well as spaces for children to gather. The Land Bank plans to organize pop-up libraries, farmer’s markets, concerts and other events at several of these locations in the near future.

Land Beautification Increases Safety

Research demonstrates that blighted, neglected properties often times lead to crime and trauma. Restoration of vacant land has been found to reduce gun violence, crime and fear.

It also decreases the number of arsons. Two city fire departments have reported a direct relationship between the number of abandoned houses the Land Bank has demolished and decreases in arsons.

Post-demolition flexible parks also create spaces for children to play. At many of the locations, children don’t have access to a nearby park and these places provide an alternative for safe play.

Check out our Impact Report that outlines the demolition and greening work we did in the city of Campbell, where we leveraged $1.2 million over three years to complete targeted improvements. 

We invite you to learn more about our activities and programs and ways you can improve your neighborhood. Tell us how we can assist you by visiting our Contact page or calling us at 330-259-1040.

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