"Sellin' of Troy" Aftershocks

My article about Troy was published last week, and the aftershocks are still being felt. The story in the NY Daily News was the talk of the town for a week. It was re-blogged by the Albany Times-Union, and called a "Love Letter to Troy." That was nice.

I was mentioning to friends about what a big deal the article had become, and Duncan Crary, who has made all things and all people in Troy his business, told me that there have only been four positive comprehensive articles about Troy in the last few years. That's why it's a big deal. Only four? Sheesh. Well, we'll change that, I hope. There is a lot going on here, and not just Downtown.

That topic - the revitalization of Troy's neighborhoods, not just Downtown, was the subject of an article in the Times Union by Chris Churchill. He contacted me in the course of researching his article (Thank you Daily News!) and we had a great conversation. Bottom line - a revitalized city has to include the outlying neighborhoods, not just a vibrant central core.

It's going to be hard, but I hope our communities will be able to rally, city and other money will be allocated wisely, and the new renaissance that Downtown in having spreads outward, especially into North Central, South Troy and Lansingburgh. All of Troy wants and deserves good and affordable housing, safe streets, good schools, jobs and economic opportunities. I'd especially love to see the many shuttered storefronts in our neighborhoods bustling with viable and long lasting neighborhood small businesses.

Anyway, here is Chris Churchill's fine article.

http://www.timesunion.com/default/article/Advocate-Without-neighborhoods-center-won-t-hold-4891281.php