Rochesterm NY Downtown Revitalization Discord

City officials here in Rochester, NY are contemplating the fate of the first indoor mall in America- Rochester's "Midtown Plaza Mall"

It has been estimated that it will take over $50 million to destroy and clear the complex, and over $140 million to renovate it.

A story in our local paper about the possible future of Midtown Plaza, including a proposed "Italian Shopping Theme" renovation, was met with DOZENS of reader comments posted on the website of the Democrat and Chronicle below the story-- http://www.democratandchronicle.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070103/NEWS01/701030357/-1/archive1

What I found interesting, but not surprising, is that public comment indicates no consensus as to WHAT to do in respect to Midtown Plaza, and the plight of reviving downtown Rochester in general. Many divergent opinions vehemently expressed by many different people. In the end public comment seems to indicate that Rochester is a very divided city in respect to our future and how to revitalize our urban center.

This expression of public discourse reinforces the reality that consensus is a damn hard premise to reach. And, once a decision is driven forward, there will be many vocal critics proclaiming that the decision sucks for one reason or another!

What bothers me more than disagreement is that it seems to me people, more than ever, are very hostile and bitter in their disagreement-- taking aim as much, and often more-so, at the people behind issues than the issues themselves! That sort of patent negativity is wrong and it only pollutes the cohesion of society.

I hope that the people of Rochester find pride in our city and the desire to be part of revival in whatever form it emerges in 2007 and beyond. Rochester, NY has a proud history and deserves a vibrant future.

My dream- come together, right now, for Rochester. Let's make this city memorable in the "history" books of the future!

Cheers to dreams of revitalization and vibrance