Minnesota Malls Could Find New Life As Residential Spaces
There's a trend starting to catch on that may save the once-great concept of malls in Minnesota. Malls used to be vibrant shopping centers when brick-and-mortar stores were the way people got their goods. Retail sales have dropped significantly since 2001, with online shopping to blame.
In our busy lives, it's so much easier to buy things with "one click" through Amazon while sitting on the couch at home. But what about when you need something right now, and you can't wait for shipping? There's a case for keeping retail stores locally.
Unfortunately, so many malls have seen retail businesses close. Many malls across the US have vacant storefronts. Vandalism can become a problem, and these huge complexes take up valuable real estate and sit empty.
Creating Apartments In Malls
There's a new trend that's catching on that makes perfect sense here in Minnesota. Developers are turning vacant stores and spaces in malls into apartments. Whether they completely gut it or redevelop the space, it's creating a solution to housing issues.
It's a win-win. There's plenty of parking available at malls already. Malls are in prime accessible real estate locations near main roadways, and often in the center of the community.
Bringing Retail Back
Foot traffic from residents in the mall can bring retail stores back. Coffee, food shops, and convenience stores all would make perfect sense. The mall would still be open to the public and residents.
There are plans underway for some malls to redevelop, like Burnsville Center which has turned into a ghost town. The city is hoping to turn the mall into the Burnsville Center Village with mixed housing, hotels, eateries, and more.
Minnesota Malls Could Be Communities
Minnesota is notorious for its long, harsh winters. Wouldn't it be something if you could get everything you need without going out into the cold? Redevelopment of malls could be a great idea for communities to revitalize struggling retail spaces, making it safer for the community and helping solve housing issues.