The Grand Central District...Question (home, purchase, prices)

[InnerCitySoul]

As I understand it, the Grand Central District extends from 16th to 31st streets.
I'm sure the most vibrant, crowded, "happening" section is closest to downtown
<16th Street.>

My question is, what is the District like at the far west end...closer to 31st Street?
What is it like today...are there interesting places to shop, some dining options or
any places to sit back and enjoy a cold beer and meet the locals? Or is it struggling
and not particularly interesting for those looking for dining/drinking/shopping options?

Also, how is it today versus several years ago? Is the general area perceived to be
trending up...stable...or down? I've read that the inevitable expansion and growth
of downtown will be west, which would seem to make this area primed for future
growth...sitting directly in the path of Saint Petersburg's "expansion."

I ask, because the housing options appear much more reasonable the closer you get to
31st Street. As an early/young retiree, I'd love to purchase a cheaper home in the path
of this future development/expansion, than pay the inflated prices of those areas already
"happening!"

Of course, I understand that there are no guarantees...I would just be interested in hearing
the perceptions of the western District from locals familiar with the area. Thank-you in
advance for any and all information you may provide!

Paul