Keeping Urban Decay at Bay: Analyzing the Economic Impact of Milwaukee’s Facade Inspection Ordinance

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is 1 of 13 cities in the United States that requires façade inspection for buildings of five-plus stories, creating a natural population of structures that are required by law to avoid falling into disrepair and are regularly inspected by professionals. Neglected buildings can act as both symptoms and aggravators of urban decay. It is important for cities to understand the factors that cause urban decay, including damaged façade. For a city to remain economically viable, it must attract new investment, especially in the downtown area, where there is a disproportionate amount of commercial activity. The research team surveyed building owners, managers, and associated personnel in Milwaukee to gauge an aggregate opinion on the condition of Milwaukee’s physical appearance. Based on the results of frequency analysis, the research team discovered a perceived association between building appearance and quality along with high levels of optimism for the city’s future.