All this week we're taking a look at what residents of the Bronx think of their own borough. Today, in our exclusive city poll, we examine what they think about their quality of life and if they are optimistic about their future. NY1's Courtney Gross filed this report.

Images of the Bronx burning seem like ancient history. Fast forward three decades to the morning rush in Concourse.

"Well, I like it. The area that I am in, I like it," one Bronx resident says.

"It's getting better every year. This neighborhood 39 years ago wasn't like this. Now, it's just picking up," another says.

It's the general sentiment of Bronx residents, many are optimistic about the future. 

According to our exclusive NY1/Baruch College city poll, 38 percent of Bronx residents think the quality of life in their borough in the next few years will get better. Nineteen percent say it will get worse and 39 percent say it will stay the same. 

"Overall, I think Bronxites think the borough has really turned the corner, and we are much better off today than we were several years ago," says Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. 

At the same time, crime is on their minds. 

We asked what was the most important problem facing the borough today, and the top response was crime, followed by quality of public schools, lack of affordable housing, unemployment and finally, mass transit.

"What's happening with the guns, blades and stuff. I think the police can act a bit better," one person says.

"My biggest thing is the school system," says another.

These Bronx residents were also split on whether they wanted to stay in their own neighborhood or leave the borough entirely.

Thirty-five percent said they would choose their current neighborhood if given an option of where to live, but another 39 percent said they would leave New York City. Twelve percent would pick another Bronx neighborhood and 14 percent would pick another New York City neighborhood. 

"My family is here. The Bronx is good. Just a few little tweaks need to be worked out, but I think they can do it," says one resident.

"Well, I am going to be buried in the Bronx," another says.