Metal, the point is well taken about mutual benefit and the concern about taking on areas that are of less benefit to us.
When I look at Venice, I see what the eye can see now, but I also cannot forget that this is the same area that will be closest to the I-70 connector, it's closest with our link to the McKinley Bridge. This area is within a few miles of all the limited traffic lanes that cross the river.
Metal, there is a lot of poverty down there and the area is strapped to maintain itself. However, the area has more to offer than that. The vacant land that leads toward National City can someday redevelop. Highway 3 south of the McKinley Bridge is practically a Ghosttown located within a mile or two of the Arch.
I see a long term potential especially from Venice to about St. Clair Ave.
The rest of East St. Louis, I would have to put on a 50+ year plan. What has been done to that city, puts it out of commission for a long time. I think much of the soil would need to be cleaned up. A lot of what's wrong with East St. Louis happened before 90% of the population was even born.
Metal, I mean we saw it with Madison. I recall how strapped the municipality was, and how the racetrack really helped bring it back. Now unfortunately, Madison is yet again at a crossroads.
By putting all these lands under one governmental unit, yes, we have to inherit the bad, but we have to work at the potential and see what this all could be in 20 years.