Do Mega Malls Improve Communities?

As mega-malls begin to emerge in established communities, communities have mixed feelings. Some think the development will bring traffic. Others look to increasing property values.

1 minute read

February 5, 2006, 1:00 PM PST

By Chris Steins @planetizen

"With a new big development always just around the corner in Southern California, the controversy over the Americana raises the question: Do such projects improve the quality of life for residents? The answer lies somewhere between the Grove and the Americana, two cases in point by the same developer.

...In the coming months, a $264-million mega-development featuring high-end shops and restaurants, a 16-screen theater complex, upscale residential units and a park will begin to take shape on a 15.5-acre patch of downtown, transforming Horgan's view as it redefines central Glendale.

'Ultimately, I think it will be good for Glendale. Look at what the Grove has done for the Farmers Market area. It's hotter than ever before,' said Richard Horgan," a 46-year old entertainment journalist, referring to Caruso's large retail and restaurant complex that opened three years ago in Los Angeles' Fairfax district.

FULL STORY: Boom or thud?

Sunday, February 5, 2006 in The Los Angeles Times

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