I noticed when I started playing that the world was already heavily developed. Also, the available projects which I later encountered required obscure items, or their quotas were already met. I think there should always be something for a newb to develop on, whether it be planting trees in public, or working on projects.
Also, I feel there should be more ways to impact the world around you. Right now, you can add/remove animals, plant trees, and contribute to projects. There should be more options for development, like the communal garden idea which has been thrown around.
Thoughts?