Downtown South Bend Residents Frustrated by Ongoing Issues at 300 East LaSalle Apartments

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SOUTH BEND, Ind. – Tenants at 300 East LaSalle Apartments in downtown South Bend are facing mounting frustrations over unresolved maintenance issues, with some saying the situation has become unbearable. Among the most pressing concerns are broken elevators and persistently low water pressure, problems that have persisted for months with no clear resolution in sight.

Genesis Alonso, a resident recovering from a C-section just four weeks ago, is one of many who feel trapped by the building's deteriorating conditions. With two elevators serving more than 100 units, Alonso was already worried about accessibility before giving birth. Though one elevator was working when she returned from the hospital, it soon broke down again, forcing her to navigate stairs that pose a serious risk to her recovery.

Despite repeated attempts to contact building management, Alonso and her husband have received little more than vague assurances. "It’s always the same thing—'we’re working on it'—but nothing ever gets done," Alonso said. The lack of communication and action has left residents feeling abandoned, and Alonso fears that without significant changes, she may have to consider moving.

The water pressure issues have also sparked concern, with one neighbor contacting the fire department, who confirmed that the pressure was only barely up to code. The ongoing problems have prompted residents to keep each other informed, but with no clear end in sight, frustration is mounting.

Dave Matthews, the building’s owner, has not responded to requests for comment, leaving tenants in limbo as they continue to deal with the day-to-day challenges of living in a building where basic amenities are increasingly unreliable.