In your research, please look beyond that recent headline of the placemaking study and watch the video presentation on youtube.  They were quite optimistic and had very good ideas.  Their issue is that these homeless kids are dominating the streets and that has to stop.  I don't find them scary, just weird.  I also like going to Whitaker--another place full of characters.  But then again, there are no Fendi stores here, just local entrepreneurs and most of the places have good food and are quite busy.  Just need more of that!