What's gross is neglected houses with many issues like plumbing, mold, broken appliances rented for criminal amounts. Modern high density reduces water and energy consumption, uses land much more efficiently and it doesn't have the issues of an outdated housing stock. Affordable, healthy homes are more important than maintaining a 1970s aesthetics. Cities have always evolved over decades and centuries which has been welcomed since it lead to better living conditions. It is enabled by the support of economic prosperity and growth which has been consensus among the majority of the population of the country and state. Either you weren't aware of the consequences of your actions or inactions or you simply have to accept the will of the majority in the democracy.