On the other hand, maybe too many people will come. Maybe in the future I will have to move out. A hint of ambivalence floats on the Chinatown air these days, like one of the stray kitchen aromas that entice visitors into this small, struggling community. Retirees who live quiet lives in a subsidized apartment building debate the effects of the arena frequently.
Business owners are generally bullish, but worry about parking.
The new wave of unsentimental young merchants along Seventh Street foresees chaos, but welcomes it. Two blocks from the sports palace boasting the latest entertainment technology, his row house is where he now practices acupuncture amid fragrances of asparagus root, wolfberry, and other herbs and powders. Consider the neighborhood's crossroads, H and Seventh streets, beneath the landmark arch of ornate gold, green, blue and red. Occupying the four corners are the Metro station, a CVS drugstore, a Starbucks and a Shoe World. An Irish pub, complete with appropriate Chinese translation, is coming two doors up from Starbucks.