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Show Mall merchants want equal RDA treatment -By GARY R. BLODGETT BOUNTIFUL Five Points Mall merchants in Bountiful want the same, or similar treatment given to them by the city as is being given by the Bountiful Redevelopment Agency for the downtown merchants. Mall Manager Jeff Bemsen asked the Bountiful Redevelopment Redevelop-ment Agency (RDA) recently to consider monetary support to the mall whose merchants are also struggling economically. The RDA board agreed to review the mall's request, but only after it had had a chance to get the downtown renovation project which has already been approved and is nearly ready for construction underway. The (RDA) board appeared sympathetic to the mall's request for financial help. In fact, board members had discussed the possibility during prior meetings. Mr. Bernsen told the board that mall merchants want help from the RDA to help locate new businesses and to provide financial assistance similar to that being done for the downtown merchants between 400 North and 500 South on both sides of Main Street. That project, approved for $1.5 million, will include utility improvements, considerable landscaping, and street improvements, improve-ments, including parking. The RDA has also invested money into downtown property to entice new businesses. The mall manager said efforts are being made to attract new businesses including a theatre and restaurants in an attempt to draw business to the center. |