City seeks label of "slum" to get federal funds for neighborhood - WOWK 13 Charleston, Huntington WV News, Weather, Sports

Huntington's Fairfield West Neighborhood could soon get a makeover, but first, the city council must designate this part of the city a "slum and blighted" area.

The Northcott Court Apartments sit in the area, and would be demolished to make way for upgraded housing, if the city's plans go accordingly.

Northcott resident, Aaron Bott likes the idea.

"[It] might bring down the crime rate around here," says Bott, who grew up in the Fairfield West area. "And it would look nicer when people come into the city, to come to the football games, and Marshall and stuff like that."

That's precisely the aim of Councilwoman Sandra Clements, who's sponsoring this resolution.

Ms. Clements says the slum designation would make it easier for Huntington to get federal assistance.

"Slum and blighted is a term that you need to draw down federal dollars and grant dollars," says Ms. Clements.

Part of the plan would have to do with expanding Hal Greer Boulevard, and making the major thoroughfare look more attractive to people coming into the city.

City officials also envision a supermarket where to Northcott Court Apartments are.

Ms. Clements says housing and quality of life would improve for the people of Fairfield West.

"How much better would it be if you could just walk down the street to go to the grocery store?"

About 300 people would be forced to move from these apartments, but the Huntington Housing Authority would cover moving expenses, and additional utility bills if residents need the help.

Many are in favor of this overhaul, but Northcott resident, Paul Esque, says he likes things the way they are.

We asked him, what he'd like to see done, if not a total makeover.

"Maybe upgrade them. Fix them up a little more. I'd like to leave them here though."

Still, officially calling this area a slum can help the city change Fairfield West into a more desirable place to live, and to drive through.