CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Charlotte city leaders revealed a sign of progress in the area near Eastland Mall.

Nearly 40 east Charlotte residents came out for a meeting Tuesday night.

Councilwoman Nancy Carter told the crowd the city purchased a vacant bank across the street from the mall, and will convert it into a new firehouse.

Neighbors said watching the mall sit nearly vacant has them worried.

"You take a look at crumbling buildings or something that's not doing well," homeowner Susan Lindsay said, "it impacts the property values of residents and we all have felt it.

Councilwoman Carter said the new firehouse will improve safety, and should help homeowners with insurance costs.