opinion

Mall needs investment from its owners

Times have been tough at the Staunton Mall for many years. This week's departure of Radio Shack only adds to the sense of doom.

We had hoped that when the new Delaware-based owners took over about a year ago, new investment in the shopping center would bring new retailers. So far, that hasn't happened.

The mall's onsite staff does what it can by bringing in local vendors to fill the center hall and hosting special events and gatherings at the old Montgomery Ward spot.

But those admirable efforts are not enough to revitalize a dying mall.

The mall will not attract new stores until the owners demonstrate commitment to its growth and improvement. Rumors about departing anchors abound and are vaguely denied.

Meanwhile the owners — operating as Staunton Mall LLC — appear disinterested. They don't respond to our reporters' interview requests. They've made no major improvements in their first year of ownership.

The Staunton Mall could be a much stronger shopping center. Perhaps it could become open air again, as most new malls are. A mixed-use center, with retail, medical and other businesses sitting side-by-side might work.

But until the mall's owners make long-overdue efforts or sell it to someone who will, the Staunton Mall will continue its downward slide, which is a shame for the people who are working to keep it afloat and the community that would welcome investment and improvement.

Our View represents the majority opinion of the newspaper's editorial board, Roger Watson, president and publisher; David Fritz, executive editor; and Deona Landes Houff, community conversations editor.