"That's 155 homeowners that have been sprinkled throughout the Pioneer neighborhoods," Peterson said. "Over 50 have gone into the Franklin neighborhood."

He also presented evidence that thefts and burglaries were cut by more than half between 1998 and last year. While he and Glauser admit they can't prove owner-occupancy caused the improvement, they believe it is a factor.

"We are definitely seeing a change in the feel of the neighborhoods and in statistics," Peterson said.

The HUD money is expressly designed to aid neighborhood rejuvenation efforts.

"Housing and community revitalization are at the heart of HUD's mission," HUD secretary Alphonso Jackson said in a press release issued by Cannon's office. "This grant is part of the department's plan to meet local needs and expand opportunities for your constituents and Americans throughout the nation."

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E-mail: twalch@desnews.com