Our city council is planning to rezone the old industrial district into mixed-use housing, and I've heard neighbors argue both sides at every meeting. Some fear losing the few remaining factory jobs, while others say new apartments will bring foot traffic and lower rents eventually. I've seen similar projects in nearby towns that either revitalized or gentrified the area depending on who you ask. Does public policy that encourages high-density development near transit actually improve life for long-time residents, or does it just shift the burden to those who can't afford to move?