This a very academic debate because there are no high end condos being built in Rossdale now and there haven't been for many years. Probably the lack of amenities nearby is a big problem and it has become a chicken and egg thing - not much around, not attractive to develop. Not a lot of people around, not much incentive for more commercial development, so not much has happened for decades.
However, I think the other examples of areas with failed or stalled development in Edmonton are not great comparisons. This area is nothing like Boyle street and could be made very appealing with the proper tweaks.
I do agree something that incorporates a strong appeal to tourists/visitors is likely to succeed here more than something else because of the area's limited population. But it does not have to be either/or, adding amenities and commercial development can make the area more appealing to both visitors and people living nearby.
