After WWII, Midwestern cities began to experience a sharp drop in population that still plague some even today. The shift to a technology based economy and way of life has left countless forgotten ruins throughout our urban environments. These remnants are direct connections to our past and are symbolic references of the effect that severe economic changes have on cities and their landscapes.
With an economy that was rooted solely in the steel Industry, Gary has not faired well over the past few decades and is a perfect example of the results of de-industrialization. My estimate: Over 70% of its downtown area is vacant and sits rotting, waiting for something.