The issues posed by homeless people in downtown Riverside, California, are not out of the ordinary. But they definitely do not help the city's efforts to revitalize downtown.
"On a quiet Sunday morning, Starbucks provided refuge. The place was bustling with moms pushing strollers, hipsters, a couple guys enjoying the newspaper, and people on their way to work. I'm sure a few of the latte sippers were "urban pioneers" who live in attractive new housing nearby. Essentially, this was the multi-cultural crowd that delights downtown boosters everywhere."
"But what about all of the angry guys outside the door demanding spare change? Who wants to put up with that all the time? Even if you're willing to tolerate, is it safe? Would you feel comfortable letting your elderly mother – or your 12-year-old daughter – catch the bus in this neighborhood?"
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