I lived in the Burlington area 40 years ago. I always felt safe there; I'd go out after work at midnight and walk back to my car alone. Sorry to learn it isn't so safe anymore. Still, I love the city.
I get to come home every 2 years for a week for work... I don't think most people who live in Burlington either leave or get out very much, as it is not that bad!!! I still feel safe walking around all hours. If you are not into drugs than 95% of the time you will be just fine. Get out of the State and see what real issues look like. I get it that Burlington is not what most of us grew up in but niether is the rest of the country. The thing to do is get out and make it a better place.
The whole US is bugged out right now even St Albans is having mini San Francisco issues. Ieft in 2007 because of DTF and divorce issues. It was a fun 7 years living there.
I'll date myself again - I remember seeing Mayor Bernie Sanders walking the streets, greeting everyone. And the original Ben & Jerry's was still open in the old garage.
