But on the edge of what?

Well, that's the question, isn't it?

Like many things, it all depends on your point of view. Some people always see the glass as half full; others, half empty.

Those with the half-full glasses will point to the revitalization of the downtown. The new courthouse construction project has gained national attention and could be a catalyst for other ventures downtown.

The long-dormant Regent Theatre is getting a significant makeover and is expected to be shining again by the end of the year.

There are also serious talks about a new hotel and condominiums for the downtown, which will only help bring people to the area.

As well, UOIT is planning to lease space downtown for its bachelor of education program, which again will bring more bodies into the city centre.

The GM Centre has to be considered the jewel in the crown, the inspiration point from which all other projects can grow. It truly is a beautiful arena, something of which all of Oshawa can be proud.

All these things are good indications of a thriving community, a downtown on the rise.

But then again, there's that other glass, the half-empty one.

Police will tell you the downtown is as safe as anywhere else, but many people still feel uncomfortable walking downtown at night. Nothing beats a sense of security and many just don't have that.

People who do walk downtown will notice many vacant buildings -- more than there would be in a thriving city. Businesses go where the opportunities are; too many vacancies downtown indicates that's not where the economic opportunities are.

A walk downtown will also reveal many building facades are in desperate need of a facelift. A fresh coat of paint and a little TLC goes a long way to build pride in a community but there's not enough of that happening right now.

People taking a stroll downtown might also notice a methadone clinic. Is a thriving downtown a good location for such a clinic? Many would say no.

In the coming weeks you'll see a logo like the one shown here on stories that deal with Oshawa's downtown. It's up to Oshawa -- and its residents -- to see whether those stories will be about the glass becoming more full, or more empty.