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Our choice of an urban project is a
deliberate one, for it comes at a time when cities across America are
enjoying an unprecedented renaissance. In moving into the city, Ms. Bilaveau
is part of a new wave around the country, and by following her story we hope
to tell a larger one. Urban home ownership is at a record high of 51 percent,
and we hope to celebrate what the New York Times recently quoted Providence mayor
Vincent Cianci Jr. as saying at the United States Conference of Mayors:
"The exodus of years ago has changed. It's hip living in the cities.
People want to be back." Many American cities  were in decline not too long ago. Buildings were
boarded up, property values were depressed, and crime was a serious problem.
Now the streets are alive with people, restaurants have opened to
standing-room-only crowds, and everywhere you look buildings are being
renovated and restored. This fall, you will be able to watch as another is
reborn.
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