The city has tried many times to do something with downtown Fresno. I know a couple of people that were involved with the big push back in the 80's; couple of police officers and a local pastor/community leader. They did a great job, but it took a lot of effort. The police went door to door and several members of the church community put their money where their mouths were and purchased homes in the area. They literally tried to change the area from the inside out. Valiant effort in my opinion, but it didn't last.

Like you, I think it's a shame to see the area get bulldozed in favor of something new and different. But ask yourself, when was the last time you supported the downtown area? I hardly ever go down there. I've been to one baseball game, and grabbed some dinner down there, but that's it. It's easy to rail against someone's decision, but honestly people like you and me are part of the problem, not part of the solution. If we truly believed in the downtown area we wouldn't spend all our entertainment dollars in places liver River Park or one of the several other similar areas. No, we'd be downtown using the facilities, the restaurants, and so on.

The downtown area is pretty bad. I've been down there at night. Not someplace I'd feel safe for my wife and kids. The area is full of pawn shops and bail bonds businesses. Nothing wrong with that, but that's not where most people go to kill a few hours strolling from shop to shop.

I understand what you're saying, and even support the idea of keeping downtown Fresno alive, but honestly what would you do? Fresno has been trying for 30 years and made little to no headway. In fact, they've netted less than zero. What would you have them do? You and I are as much to blame as anyone. Think about it.