Fighting the pull of the pike

Juan Pardell wrote:

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Ever notice there isn't a Walmart in Belmont Shore?

chassity c wrote:

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I have noticed that... But Walmart is not the only factor that is preventing the growth of downtown long beach. If you are familiar with long beach, Walmart co exist with other shops at the Long Beach Towne Center, even with the smaller retail. Walmart don't just draw gang members and section 8. Wealthy people who knows how to handle their money shops at bargain places like Walmart, though it may not see them downtown necessarily. But, as I said before, what are we going to do with what we have now? Walmart at this point the only major retail that is bringing downtown revenue, which is the bottom line to them. It is not just the lower income people who has nothing else to do but kill downtown's economy. It is the lack of support for this area by the locals and the government. Again, reevaluate our leadership. They have not focused on the big picture of piecing together downtown into the mecca it can be. It is obvious that the city thought the Pike is the savior of downtown... It is not. Just as the Pike was revitalized, Pine can be drawn up the same. My grandfather still tells me stories about downtown lb when he was my age...
Redevelopment is the theme the local government is riding on yet killing off landmarks like Acres of Books with more condos is not the answer. The lack of unity within an area that is as diverse in demography as the local interests are cannot solve itself. Reformation is the answer to the overall questions downtown residents, particularly pine ave residents and business owners, are looking for. All hope is not lost even though it is getting late...