Downtown revitalization: Don't forget the little people

John Daley likes the idea of a shiny new highrise atop the old Filene's building, but he cautions that that alone won't solve Downtown Crossing's issues, notably crime and homelessness (ed note: See the intersection just outside the new Ritz).

Mike Mennnonno is delighted the city will be helping to end its shortage of luxury condos, but adds:

... Wouldn't it be better to move to encourage something more reflective of the area's ambiance (if you want to cal it that)--like making a concerted effort to bring more small, local businesses to the pedestrian section of Washington Street? Maybe make it an even more open-market style area, but on the seedier side of chi-chi? I mean, you've got Newbury Street if you want upscale in Back Bay, right? ...