I grew up in Russellville too, my old teen stomping grounds. People still ride the strip on week-ends but it's 85% Mexicans. There's been new business's & churches come in but it's Mexicans.
The town is definitely not what it used to be (thanks to the Mexicans) but I wouldn't call it a ghost town.
As for the tri-cities, there is business's in the Industrial Park so I don't know how you missed them. There's also TVA & Wise.
I've wondered the same thing about the new homes going up on 6th St.
I don't think the tri-cites looks like a ghost town either but maybe it's because we like it & consider it home.
Buttercup, where do you live?