Before the renovation started, I've often walked through the mall (particularly on very hot or wet days) and sometimes enjoyed their comfy chairs or worked in the food court area. At least last summer, there often seemed to be a great cross-section of Portland at the mall.

I'd love the renovation to succeed, but it seems like the mall will still be mostly facing inward, surrounded by parking. The quotes from leadership this last year all seem generic corporate mall-speak with little changing besides cosmetics (maybe because they can't discuss negotiations, maybe because...). Maybe it will work. Maybe they will get great local businesses. Maybe they will integrate into the surrounding neighborhood. Maybe they will host great community events. Maybe the businesses will thrive. I hope.