Let’s face it. When so many people start complaining and raising the alarms about how badly our beloved Davis Square is doing in terms of upkeep and infrastructure, we all need to wake up and pay attention.

While the city has invested heavily in the development and promotion of various areas such as Assembly Row and Union Square – and justifiably so – the very heart of the downtown community, Davis, has quietly been suffering a slow death of a thousand cuts.

Broken up walkways, damaged lamp posts, peeling paint, etc. It’s enough to make a lifelong resident wonder how things have gone so far.

It seems to be a matter of setting priorities and following through on plans and promises. Citizen action groups like DavisNow are to be commended for shedding light on the issues while urging city government to take notice and act accordingly.

Their efforts seem to be yielding fruit. City officials and staff have heard the message and have pledged to do more to restore the Square to its former glory.

As host to many traditional events, as well as casual days and exciting nights on the town. it deserves to shine like the jewel it truly is.