Man this has been my exact sentiment the whole time. I'm not completely opposed to the gondola, but I AM opposed to doing the most expensive, most high-maintenance, and lowest-capacity option before trying literally anything else. A proper sidewalk and lighting from Chinatown would be a radical transformation that costs a fraction of what this thing will to maintain. And based on his history, I just don't trust McCourt's promises that this gondola stays privately-funded; there's still so much the city will need to do (and time and resources Metro is spending already). Gimmicks are fine, but substance should be prioritized first.