How does the Fillmore change over the course of the novel, On the Rooftop?

Throughout the novel, the Fillmore undergoes a series of unstoppable changes. When the city's municipal leadership changes, a man by the name of Mr. Belmont deems the neighborhood blighted, and slates many of the buildings for demolition (80). Over the course of the narrative, the community tries to save their neighborhood. Esther and Horace particularly encourage their friends not to sell to Belmont. Their efforts are ultimately to no avail.