Then something happens. Money that would normally be used to support the infrastructure begins to be diverted into other growing areas. Because the area has less money to spend on upkeep, less of it is done. The once-proud area starts to look a little worn. The best residents start to move out because they don’t want to live in a threadbare area. Now the value of properties begins to decline. Lower-income people can afford to live in the area, and they do. Because property values are declining, the tax base also shrinks. This smaller pool of money now can pay for even fewer projects. As higher-earning residents flee the area, they stop shopping at the local stores. The stores’ revenues begin to decrease. They will eventually decrease to the point where the stores will either close their doors or relocate. I could go on, but you get the picture.