Tamika Spikes, a resident of Alice Griffith Apartments, was initially thrilled to move into a two-bedroom apartment with her young daughter. However, her excitement was short-lived, as a severe rodent infestation soon took over the building, causing her and her daughter to struggle with breathing difficulties.

History of Neglect

The story of Alice Griffith Apartments serves as a case study in how redeveloped, formerly public housing can deteriorate despite the involvement of city officials, public agencies, and the media. The complex, which was redeveloped under the HOPE SF initiative, a public-private partnership launched in 2006, has fallen into disrepair, with residents living among a severe rodent infestation.

Despite an estimated $230 million in public and private financing, the housing complex has been plagued by vermin, with rodents burrowing into its walls, taking over office space, and feasting on trash and food debris. The Department of Public Health has cited the property for numerous public health violations, including rodent and cockroach infestations, bed bugs, and piles of unattended garbage.

Broken Promises

Public officials, including the mayor, had made promises to do right by the community, but the dream of a thriving, mixed-income community has given way to squalor. Residents, including Spikes, feel betrayed by the lack of action taken to address the habitability issues at the complex.

The city’s inaction has led to a public health crisis, with residents suffering from the consequences of neglect. The story of Alice Griffith Apartments serves as a stark reminder of the need for effective governance and accountability in addressing the needs of low-income families.

Original reporting: Mission Local — read the source article.