Skip to content

Alleys Quote by Ray Stannard Baker

“The streets and alleys of the ward were notoriously filthy, and the contractors habitually neglected them, not failing, however, to draw their regular payments from the city treasury.” quote by Ray Stannard Baker
Download Open image
“The streets and alleys of the ward were notoriously filthy, and the contractors habitually neglected them, not failing, however, to draw their regular payments from the city treasury.”

Ray Stannard Baker

About This Quote

Source Historical account: The City of Chicago, early 20th century, 1915

Neglectful maintenance of public spaces persists despite financial gain for contractors.

In simple terms: Neglect continues while money flows.

Key Takeaway

Demand accountability for public works.

Themes

public policy urban decay corruption

Mood

critical concerned

Type

journalistic social commentary

When to use this quote

  • municipal budgeting
  • community health
  • infrastructure projects

Key Concepts

economics ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can citizens enforce better standards?
  • What mechanisms deter contractor neglect?
A Different Perspective

Financial incentives can outweigh civic responsibility.

3.1 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Ray Stannard Baker

Explore all 22 Ray Stannard Baker quotes

More Alleys quotes

Browse all 255 Alleys quotes