Most people who don't live there. That's why the Cinema's closed down years ago. The only reason I've gone there is for UCONN Football. Also as far as a Blue Back Sq. type development, there is a big difference between West Hartford and East Hartford. WH., one of the most wealthy towns in CT, EH not so much.
There's so much wrong with this type of thinking I'm not sure where to start.
You think Cabela's was put there because of the EH median income? Or was it the location and ease of access? An outlet mall with retail and restaurants that supplement the other development isn't for EH residents alone. Tolland, Glastonbury, Ellington, Windsor, South Windsor, and other area towns would all be considered part of the market for the businesses. Blue Back is supported by the WH residents as well as the surrounding towns. That's why they needed a couple parking garages.
Instead of allowing E. Hartford to continue dying, eventually eating up more and more taxpayer money through state aid and other spending programs, major projects that bring jobs to the area are needed. Perhaps with more local employment opportunities, and an increased grand list, E. Hartford can afford to improve it's schools, it's parks, etc, etc.
E. Hartford isn't going to become a nice town because we have excellent tailgating 6 days a year.
