In 1975, a crowd of thousands gathered around the former Tiedtke’s Department Store as it burned to the ground. Others, like Toledoan Wendy Chorney Millenbach, sat in front of...

Bordered by the Scioto River on the north and east, Franklinton is Columbus, Ohio's oldest neighborhood—and also one of its most struggling. Within the last few years, developers have made efforts to rebrand the neighborhood with upscale housing, breweries and other attractions. But while eastern Franklinton is a growing hotspot for a younger crowd, the rest of the neighborhood is actively struggling with crime, drug use and gentrification. This photo essay works to explore the complexities of a neighborhood in transition.

On the inside, Vida’s looks like any other traditional deli shop. There are meats and cheeses neatly wrapped in the front case and a menu with familiar lunch items:...