Five years ago, few grasped the plan that even then was burbling in the minds of futurists whose vision was a resurrection in Charlotte's First Ward - prosperous families and singles enjoying Center City life; true neighborhoods where people walk and greet neighbors; a place where people welcome diversity and care one for another.

In Fourth Ward, the area north of Seventh Street and west of Tryon, it took decades. In First Ward, it will take less than half that.

A phoenix is rising in First Ward called the Garden District. On the diagram inside, look at Ninth Street and the Linear Park built down the middle of it. Notice the roundabout at Ninth's intersection with North Davidson. The Garden District is that part north of Ninth Street and east of Davidson.

By September 2001, Tivoli's Phase I buildings and parking plaza and landscaping will be rising out of the top blocks just south of 11th Street. Saussy-Burbank has announced it will build 33 single-family homes south of Tivoli (see the areas labeled "proposed lots"on the diagram). Trinity Episcopal School will soon break ground between North Myers and McDowell streets.

Within four years, the Garden District will be complete - a triumph of Charlotte resolve. And you can be part of it.

Get away from it all? At Tivoli, no problem. Go to The Crescent Park. Gather your latest "Wired," your Gattaca sightwear, a lounge chair and a tumbler of your favorite cold beverage.

Walk down Garden District Drive and head to The Crescent Park, a garden area complete with trails for hiking, biking or walking. The gentle swoosh of cars down below will hum a soothing backgrounAd as you read. Or sun. Or solve the problems of the world with friends.

Don't expect to be alone for long. Other residents will soon discover the advantages of using The Crescent for solitary times. Unless you're close to it, you'll hardly notice the freeway. Sounds from down there must climb a 20-foot slope, cross 11th Street, and walk 50 more yards across Tivoli's parking before reaching Tivoli's buildings. By that time, the laws of physics have calmed any "noise" to a whisper.

Dissipation. That's what it's called. Each inch sound travels, it dissipates more. And there's a lot of air between Tivoli and the freeway.

So Tivoli residents get the best of two situations. When you want a humming background, it's there for you. And when you don't - like on your balcony during a quiet, romantic event - even your subconscious won't notice.