[hilko]

Interesting. I can see how architecture plays a role in this.

My experiences were mostly in large towns and cities, where the architecture was sufficiently 'open' and 'organic' to perhaps make the areas safer than the ones you mean (even despite the 70s / 80s ugly and depressing concrete-everywhere approach that needs little more than some graffiti to look like a ghetto.)

[mapt]

One important aspect is density; Another is to have relatively mixed usage blocks with lively things like storefronts or entrances near the sidewalk as often as possible, rather than a street-facing brick wall on three sides, or expanses of lawn or parking lots.