In today's paper, on 3A, is my story about Pike Road's recent annexations. I'm interested in this, as a long-time resident of the area, and what it might mean for the future of east Montgomery. My main question is if it really affects the city as much as it simply creates a border to which the city of Montgomery can grow, eastward and southeastward.

Also in the paper, and all over the news, is commentary and speculation about the revitalization of downtown Montgomery.

Activity and development of any kind changes the way a city looks, sounds and operates -- but I'm looking forward to watching new projects around the county develop. A lot of people are putting up a lot of investment in Montgomery. I'm not a businesswoman, but it does seem that if people are pouring money into an area, potential has been identified.

For Pike Road, this means growing into a more-viable entity, with a school and retail/ business revenue. For the city of Montgomery, focusing on downtown will, in the words of Mr Bronner, keep us from rolling up the streets at night.