North Columbia: Crisis or Comeback?

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North Columbia cleanup declared success

Eau Claire/North Columbia lightened its load by 51 tons of trash during the Aug. 9 community cleanup.

ABOUT THIS PROJECT

After city manager Charles Austin described North Columbia as a community in crisis, The State sent a team of reporters, photographers, editors and videographers into the area to chronicle life in this part of our city.

They found single mothers tired of dodging bullets and being ignored by police.

They found volunteers and advocates dedicated to helping the area grow and prosper.

They found neighborhoods of stately homes, beautiful trees and proud families.

They found streets of striking poverty.

They found business owners intent on helping lift up North Main Street.

All this is part of the fabric of the true North Columbia -- and the voices of a community.

  • Chapter 1: Hope

    When three murders occurred in as many months at Gable Oaks apartments in North Columbia earlier this year, residents and city officials took action.


  • Chapter 2: Hurdles to clear

    Crime — clustered around large, poorly secured apartment complexes — is the most evident and dangerous challenge to North Columbia. But it is not the only thing holding back this area of great potential.
    Go to series homepage


  • Chapter 3: The search for solutions

    For 15 years, North Columbia has waited for its moment. Community leaders watched as other parts of the city began to flourish. New housing in Waverly. Luxury apartments in Olympia’s old mills. Entertainment, nightlife and restaurants in the Vista. Beautification in Five Points.

CONTINUING COVERAGE

CLEANUP DAY

PHOTO GALLERY

Wake Up, Clean Up Eau Claire/North Columbia, Aug. 9