Here is my “copyrighted” solution:
Turn the larger ones into secured, self-contained, SENIOR CENTERS.
1. Transform compatible store fronts into “townhouses” (single or multiple), “bungalows, or apartments.
2. Larger, anchor-store spaces can house commercial support for seniors, such as grocery store, drugstores, medical support (doctors, therapy, etc).
3. Place security at all entrances 24/7.
4. Mall walking space for senior exercise (or in some cases, power wheelchairs, small scooters, etc); it’s air conditioned, level, and safe.
5. Secured parking in parking lot, and golf car shuttle to and from cars.
I think the older, and larger, abandoned malls would be excellent for this purpose. No section 8, or government housing.
Then again, it might be prohibitively expensive.
It was a thought....sigh.
I’ve seem similar recommendations out there... that’s a great option. The enclosed environment could give seniors a full-blown community, replete with apartments and stores located within an expansive, climate-controlled facility.
I had to look up and see how the mall near me growing up was doing. It was the first indoor mall - Southdale, near Minneapolis. In the article it said it is now competing with the nearby Mall of America (MOA).
But - Southdale is doing okay at 62 years olds.
It brought what sounds like part of the library system into the mall to increase traffic. The few folks visiting meant empty parking spots. So they used the outer parts of the parking lots and put up hotels and condos. So now instead of driving to the mall, they just walk over.
Of course in the article there wasn’t any mention of gangs or stuff. In that part of town, I’m guessing that they still aren’t much of a presence in the mall. I think they run a pretty tight ship. Plus, I think the gangs would be more likely over at the larger MOA which is also closer to the city.