The contrasting success of the Merrick Park and Bal Harbour luxury malls in Miami's surburbs are a reminder of the importance of neighborhoods.
"Merrick Park has significant handicaps, says Fick, including its location, the economic fallout from 9/11, which happened during construction, and a significant downturn in Miami-Dade County tourism. The mall's site near several auto body shops, a public high school and a rapid transit line isn't befitting a development of its stature, says Fick. To make up for this deficit, it was built 'like a castle.' Its architecture faces inward, away from the surrounding neighborhood, Fick explains."
Thanks to Laura Kranz
FULL STORY: Miami Luxury Mall Struggles
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UCLA Lewis Center for Regional Policy Studies
Mpact (formerly Rail~Volution)
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