Will Detroit's New Promenade Change The City?

"While architecture can't directly reduce crime," said Robin Boyle, professor of urban planning at Wayne State University, "it is well-documented that urban design has a huge impact upon whether people feel safe... The [new riverfront] promenade, coupled with General Motors' efforts to open the architecture of the Renaissance Center, finally may be proof that Detroit is ready to embrace residents, tourists and businesses with open arms -- and welcoming architecture."