What characterizes a blighted area?

A blighted area is typically characterized by decline and negative economic impacts that affect the quality of life and property values within that region. Destructive economic forces can include factors such as urban decay, high crime rates, unemployment, and a lack of investment, which together contribute to an environment that is often seen as undesirable for residents and investors alike.

In such areas, properties may be vacant or in disrepair, and the overall infrastructure may be deteriorating. These adverse conditions lead to a decline in property values, making the area blighted. This definition aligns well with the concept of blight as it focuses on the negative attributes that impede growth and revitalization efforts within the community.

Other options describe conditions that do not align with the concept of blight. High levels of investment and redevelopment, for example, typically indicate revitalization rather than decline, while rapid increases in property values suggest economic growth and stability. Strong community development initiatives reflect proactive measures to improve an area, contrasting sharply with the decay associated with blighted regions.