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Keep Casinos Where They Do Some Good

"And those of us who thought the casinos were a sucker bet will make more of a contribution if we concentrate on trying to see that Detroit gets the most benefit possible out of the casinos. The city, after all, is scarcely alone in believing that this is the path to civic riches, more jobs and lower taxes.

"…Let's hope it works and that the state, which will take over the old GM building, will provide a catalyst for the New Center. There are some signs of new life in areas such as the Cultural Center (the rebuilding of the Science Center and the new African-American art center that will be part of the Detroit Institute of Arts). The renewal of Woodward Avenue from New Center down to Grand Circus Park is always going to be tough, but that, too, may follow.

"…Some argue that for Detroit to get the full benefit of the casinos, they must be moved down to the riverfront. It's the old gambler's argument: If you haven't gotten what you wanted from the initial round, you raise the ante and take more risks. And it is as dumb a strategy for cities most of the time as it is for the sucker at the table.

"…You think it's a problem trying to find a new use for an abandoned ballpark and for a once-grand train station that's been ravaged by time and neglect? Wait until you try to sell a slightly used temporary casino."

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