I think downtown is really fun and vibrant--especially if you venture out of your dark house.  10 years ago and today?  What a difference.  Change is slow, so don't expect Disneyland overnight-if that is what you are looking for.  Downtown needs more residential projects so there is a community that has a stake in the evenings and weekends.  You know that saying that my chosen words are "spin" is just a childish debate tactic.  Go out and demonstrate, get a late night pizza, listen to some great music.