Is Safety a Concern When Coming Into Downtown Buffalo? [POLL]

Are you worried about your safety when coming into downtown Buffalo?  For many, the fear is real, and because of that, they avoid coming downtown or other places in the city.

I, for one, come downtown at 3:30 a.m. each weekday morning, and I'll be honest: I'm always prepared and always alert in case trouble may arise.  There is somewhat of a police presence, but that doesn't give much sense of security.The downtown area -- namely, the Chippewa Strip -- has made changes to keep the "riff-raff" out, but I know many people who still won't come into downtown for a drink or dinner. I think part of the reason is that downtown Buffalo is dead and run down.  In places with those characteristics, you will find more trouble, and safety is definitely in question.

I've lived in Buffalo all my life, and I used to take offense when people ragged on the city, but the older I get, I realize that there is truth to what they say -- or at least some truth.  Having gone to high school in downtown Buffalo and worked there for the past 10 years, my vehicle has been broken into twice, and I've had "adrenaline rush" moments -- moments when a stranger approaches you out of nowhere, run-ins with undesirables...you name it! -- more times than I can count.  Don't get me wrong, I'm NOT terrified in my own backyard, but I AM saying that I don't always feel 100 percent safe.

How do you feel about coming into downtown Buffalo?  Do you avoid the city all together?