"The empty downtown of this worn-out city has seen noble efforts at revitalization fail before, but $1 billion in new investment may finally put to rest its reputation as a place resistant to change.
A closed mall will be torn down and replaced with shops, condominiums, and restaurants. A new hotel is under construction nearby, and an old one has been renovated. Other derelict properties have been snatched up by developers, and an old auto dealership, roller rink, and former triple-X movie theater are all candidates for redevelopment.
'We'll get downtown right,' City Manager Michael O'Brien said. 'This will be the final reincarnation.'"
