Transferring to Dayton - South Park Info?

[Bjoy]

I grew up in South Park in the '50's and saw it start go down in the 60's. They have been trying to renovate South Park for years and I know there are some beautiful homes there, but they are few and far between. The area is a mixed area of whites and blacks and now hispanics. I think it is getting worse again. I hear of a lot more shootings and violence in the last few yrs.
It will never get to be the "beautiful historic neighborhood" that we have all hoped for. That is my opinion. Sad, but true. Next, Oakwood, lovely older homes, strictly upheld city regulations, homes close together, small yards, excellent schools,mixed age groups, a community that sees itself as somewhat better than the rest and proud of it. Kettering, mixed areas from perhaps lower middle class to high class, yards vary in size, city maintains tight regulations, schools are very good, mixed ages, leaning toward the older side. Centerville, in general more expensive than Kettering, excellent schools, mixed ages, more kids than Kettering. All 3 areas have rec centers and parks. Just remember South Park is really not so safe and never will be. Bjoy

[Kdogg73]

There are people in every historic community working uphill in both preserving history and to make better city living in Dayton. We are fighting both perception and reality. South Park is no exception. I happily live, participate, own and restore property in South Park. Visit South Park Historic District's website for some more info or email me at kjmoran (a) sbcglobal.net. Please give an opportunity to our community or any other Dayton historic districts if you you're looking to live in older homes of the inner city. Dayton MostMetro.com is also a great site to check out for Dayton urban living. Good luck!

[J&A'sMOM]

Hi,
Not sure if I should start a new thread. I have a couple of questions about Oakwood. DH is interviewing next week in Dayton/Centerville. We just relocated 2 years ago so I've been through it. We have a 3 & 5 year old very active little kids - need a neighborhood where all the kids run around and play, bike, swim, hang out safely from one house to another.

My ?'s are:
Is there a cool downtown where people hang out? Shops, library, coffee shops, restaurants?

On the realtor sites looks like the houses are old which I love, is the town pretty much like that? We'd be looking for a fun town with older homes (new is out - got to have architectural quaintness that only older communities can offer)

Are there any other towns to look into? I haven't found any surfing the internet. Any suggestions. DH is interviewing all over the country and he's pretty excited about this job.

Thanks!!

[Bjoy]

I would say Oakwood might be what you are looking for. House are close together, older homes. Kids walk to school. Centerville is more of a drive your kids to play city. downtown dayton has the Dragons Baseball team, but for famalies that is about it. Some specialty shops and a popular grocery in Oakwood, parks and rec center.