Growth Makes Town A City

"While the level of density and community improvements loom as large issues, they are hardly the only hurdles confronting officials as they proceed toward a final plan to turn downtown into a vibrant area."

"The plan for downtown is so sweeping that many people say its impact will be the most profound since the origins of Columbia more than four decades ago."

The town of Columbia, Maryland, is going urban as plans for redeveloping the downtown look to increase population, traffic and economic activity. More than 5,500 units of housing are planned, including a 23-story residential tower. Residents see their town taking this big step too quickly.