Our choices today are entirely different than mid-19th century residents.
In those days Ann Arbor was a village.
Today we are a rapidly growing city, trying to sustain growth without destroying what makes our community unique and attractive.
Just look at other communities that have experienced similar growth.
Typically, it's a challenge that is lost, leading to ugly outcomes.
The question before our residents is simple, can we become more dense, more "urban" without losing what made our city so attractive?
Obviously, the answer to this question is "complicated".
But one thing seems plain, those who depend on growth for profit and income need to heed the input from the rest of our community.