"What Main Street Can Learn From the Mall" Questions

1. List the criteria Robert Gibbs uses to evaluate a Main Street.

traffic

no left turns

concentration of stores

cleanliness of streets/sidewalks

attractiveness/price of trash cans similar items

parking

a reason for people to get out of their cars, destination

signs advertising brands

security

2. Think critically of Gibbs’ argument.  Do you think “Main Street” should be a mall?

I agree that Main Street can learn a lot from malls but it should retain its individuality. Shopping downtown is appealing because there are more independent boutiques but also because all of the buildings don't look the same. Matching streetlights, trash cans, and benches are nice but should be mixed with old brick buildings and new construction. Different shaped windows and doors and buildings made of different materials are much more appealing than the off-white and stainless steel that is found in malls. It is important for Main Street stores to retain their individuality. 

3. Make your own checklist to judge a Main Street.  What things do you think are important?

parking

desirable stores for different audiences, more than one store for each audience

easy to walk around, only have to park once

mix of stores and restaurants with varying prices

security

window displays that accurately depict what is in the store

clean streets/sidewalks