[onewhippedpuppy]

Originally Posted by KC911

I think I'm talking about something totally different (i.e. not "the projects"), but I've seen quite a few old "inner cities" revitalized with outstanding results around these parts and other areas. Today they are "thriving", and attract the "upscale" types for the most part. Of course I've seen some real "boondoggles" too

You mean like the renovated downtown areas that are now centers of entertainment, upscale condos, etc? We have an area of Wichita called "Old Town" that is an old downtown warehouse district transformed into an area of bars, restaurants, shopping, and condos. KC has a similar area called "Power & Light District", OKC has "Bricktown". All are pretty cool areas, we go stay at KC P&L pretty frequently when my wife and I escape from the kids for a weekend. It's appealing because we stay in a restored early 1900s hotel (Hilton President) that has major charm, and there's plenty to do within a block's walk. I'd say the common theme is that the cities have to go all-in, this is an entire area that has been completely renovated and repopulated, with major attractions and upscale entertainment. All three feature some form of arena, and all have a pretty significant police presence to keep away the previous inhabitants.