There IS a part of Toledo that is "a little Detroit" as you put it. We call it the hood. It's basically in what is described as Central Toledo. Very high crime rate, gang activity, drive-bys. Mostly African American..and they seem to rob, hurt and kill their own. Downtown Toledo (which used to be nothing but empty buildings, hookers and drugs, has undergone a revitalization, particular with the new MudHens ball stadium and the Huntington Center (venue for hockey and concerts) Many, many new restaurants, bars, housing are down there now and I feel safe walking down there at night. Much activity. The outskirts of downtown tho...I would not.
Promedica has built their headquarters there now and also opened a grocery store. The farmers market is held in Downtown Toledo and is highly trafficked with the public. They have events by Cosi- in the park..There's some shops, and hip places that have opened up. I don't think it's ever going to see its glory days like back in the 50's but it is WAY WAY better than it was in the 70's-80's