Janesville library area safe? (Columbus, Owen: renting, houses, neighborhoods)

[Owensmomma]

Hello all,

We're moving to Janesville soon, and are wondering about the safety of the neighborhood around and immediately east of the Janesville Public Library (Hedberg). We know enough to avoid the Fourth Ward, but this is across the river from there.

Any help or advice about this specific neighborhood is greatly appreciated! Thank you.

[Milwaukee City]

it's Janesville not Compton.

[Owensmomma]

Thanks.....anyone else want to weigh in?

[fattigmann]

The area is definitely not unsafe. I would just describe it as rather undesirable. I have lived in Janesville for the past 10 years, and have witnessed the run-down feel surrounding the library start migrating up towards the courthouse hill district. If you are going to purchase a house, I would recommend staying on the East side. I personally prefer to see people jogging and walking, well-maintained parks and homes, and economic stability. The library is an excellent resource in Janesville, however IMO the city fathers have left the downtown area to its own devices.

[Owensmomma]

Thanks for your input, Fattigmann---I appreciate it! Fortunately we'll be renting, not buying. As for economic stability, I'm not sure where to find areas of economic stability in an economy like the current one!

If we do decide to stay on in Janesville and maybe even buy something down the road, which neighborhoods are considered desirable?

Thanks again

[fattigmann]

Owensmamma- Briarcrest is a good, safe bet. Columbus Circle. "The Reservation" area east of Craig High School towards Palmer Park. The new Ken Hendricks development on the ridge above Riverside Golf Course. The neighborhoods right across the river from Riverside Park, going up all the way along the river (hidden neighborhoods--but they feel a little like Door County if you know where to look). Also, there is an area near hwy 51 and 14 kind of above the river. Lots of excellent areas in Rock Co. You will be shocked.

[Owensmomma]

Thanks for the recommendations, Fattigmann. We did end up renting a house in the library area. It's an awesome house, but many of the houses around here are vacant or only partially rented out. Sad to see....I must say, though, the people in Janesville are much friendlier than where we came from. And that library is a very good one.

We're holding off on a purchase for now, as prices continue to drop.