The word “thus” usually indicates a conclusion. Yes, this does seem like a conclusion—this project will have a certain outcome (better quality of life in this neighborhood), and I can now see how the previous two sentences fit into this conclusion. Sentence 3 is a premise because it provides one way in which the quality of life might be better for these people (they might make more money), and sentence 2 is a counterpremise because it tells me a negative consequence.