In many communities, the mall is the de facto downtown—the main public gathering spot—as well as a highly valued shopping location and quintessential American contribution to the world’s consumer culture. Because most malls are now decades old, the stock of centers is aging rapidly. Built at what were then metropolitan edges, aging malls are now deeply imbedded. Today, malls face an alarming challenge. Customers are now seeking authenticity and a deeper sense of connection to their community, culture, climate, and daily lives. Among many shoppers, there also is an emerging preference for outdoor, streetfront shopping experiences—either in new centers or in older shopping districts—that are better integrated with other daily activities.