The other day I was driving home from visiting John Wolcott’s house on Sheridan. I was shocked to see how much lower Sheridan Hollow has changed in even the past year. While the asphalt on the road is still awful, there are many new buildings on that street, from new public housing to hotels, businesses, and other developments.

Now, some of the buildings have modern facades, likely of questionable durability. Many of the sub-market rentals may not attract the best tenants and things might not last. But on the other hand, some of the buildings are higher end condos and hotels, suggesting the idea that the neighborhood has permanently changed.

The changes didn’t come with some loss to Sheridan Hollow’s history. Some of the most historic buildings in the city were torn down without much thought to their history or who once stayed there. The city should have been more respectful to change.

But I guess it is good that they are repopulating that part of the city, and turning a wasteland into an area that will hopefully slow sprawl and exodus from the city. Maybe people moving into the city will mean one less farm field being paved for Suburban McMansions. Not to mention the carbon benefits of state workers being able to get to work on foot, and enjoy the recreational activities without driving home drunk. Now if there was only more quality shopping opportunities downtown – it sucks that city folk have to drive to suburbs to do their weekly shop.