Filene’s department store is more than just a shopping destination at the heart of Downtown Crossing. For almost a century, it’s been a part of Boston’s identity, as much of a local icon as Faneuil Hall or the CITGO sign.

But the sun is setting on Filene’s time in Boston, and the city must now decide what kind of development can take place in the soon-to-be-vacant location. One proposal — already endorsed by Mayor Menino — is to allow Target to move in, a plan that has drawn opposition from those who feel such a big-box store would not be appropriate for a city that prides itself on its uniquely historical character.

But the benefits of the store in one of the city’s most highly trafficked areas ultimately outweigh any threat from the homogenized world of Target.

As we all know, Boston is one of the priciest cities in the nation. Advocates for affordable housing constantly remind us that people are leaving the city because it’s so costly; even when people can afford to rent an apartment, other costs add up and force people to migrate to cheaper locales.

A one-stop shop for everything from clothes and house wares to electronics and groceries — in an easy-to-reach, central location, no less — would be welcome by many Bostonians burdened by the high cost of living.

The city’s college students would especially benefit from the placement of a Target close to home. How many Boston University students recall freshman-year treks by bus or cab to the bowels of Watertown or Somerville, just to reach the big red savings? If Target were to replace Filene’s, low-priced bedding, school supplies and DVDs would be only a quick T ride away for college students on a budget.

There is some fear that a Target in Downtown Crossing would spell doom for the mom-and-pop stores in the area. But when one walks around Downtown Crossing these days, are there any such stores to be found? The names that dominate the area now could be found in any major city in the United States: Strawberry’s, Barnes ‘ Noble, Express, Foot Locker and so on. Moreover, Target could work to make a non-intrusive home among these businesses while leaving the historic exterior of the building intact.

Downtown Crossing no longer has the unique flavor that some sentimentalists would have us believe. A new Target would not be a detriment to Boston, but a low-priced alternative for a city desperately in need of it.