Many cities have views that have not changed in years. My hometown has streets that have not changed since 1801. I would not equate a lack of change for a lack of progress. In fact, if there is anyway to revert some of the "progress" made in Lansing over the past 60 years this might be a better place to live. For example, replacing the pond in Oak Park, or replacing the street level lighting in the northern neighborhoods.
As gas prices continue to rise, those families who derive a living from working in Lansing will be moving closer to town. Depending on how attractive the current residents and city leaders can make the inner-city neighborhoods will affect the urban influx. (Interesting to have a new word in the urban planning vocabulary) Houses on High Street, a street this chat group called the most undesirable in Lansing are asking $89,000+. These houses were valued at $30,000 or less just three years ago.
In addition to two regressions list above, having the core neighborhoods tap back into the Board of Water and Light steam line for heat would also be a huge attraction to many homebuyers.