exploring downtown

Dapper fellow tragically attacked by face-eating rodents or picturesque urban decay?

I took a wander by the train station yesterday. Why are train stations always surrounded by dilapidated buildings and rust, even when they are located in the middle of town? The train station itself is pretty shiny. I find dilapidation interesting to look at, anyway. Got my train tickets, am all set for a long wait in Toronto and a train ride longer than it seems like it should be.