This was broadcast on TV in September, by December I had managed to get this on DVD from my public library.
The city of Dayton Ohio is examined as an example of what can and is happening to certain USA cities. Once a center of innovation and manufacturing, over the past few decades certain companies have deserted Dayton, once high wages fell to near the poverty level with the replacement jobs. Whole neighborhoods were abandoned and later bought up at cents on the dollar by foreign investors. A full 1/3 of the people of Dayton live below the poverty level established by the government.
Part of the problem were the unions which negotiated for higher and higher wages and benefits until companies decided to move to another area. Part of it is just tied to the free enterprise system, companies do what they need to do to insure continued growth and profits.
For many of us who have been here for a long time we see the country headed for a disaster. While taxes are being cut for the rich and the corporations, city and transportation infrastructure, in grave need of repair and refurbishment, are mostly being neglected. The country is on a collision course with collapse.
Not all cities are suffering, many are thriving, but can we afford to keep letting cities like Dayton to suffer the type of fate it has?