With Chestnut Hill Square Now Open, Will Rt. 9 Rival the Malls?

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• Photo courtesy of New England Development

• Photo courtesy of Anthropologie

• Photo courtesy of New England Development

• Photo courtesy of Drybar

• Photo courtesy of New England Development

• Photo courtesy of New England Development

• Photo courtesy of True Runner

Chestnut Hill Square, a new development across Route 9 from the already popular suburban shopping destination The Street, opened itself up to customers yesterday with several of its blockbuster businesses ready to go. While the widely hyped Wegman's supermarket and Equinox fitness club are still under construction, blowout leader Drybar is already styling clients and activewear stores Athleta and True Runner are outfitting sports buffs from head to toe. Nationwide chain Anthropologie is open as well, replacing the void filled from its former Atrium Mall location in the same neighborhood.

Speaking of malls, do you think this revamped strip on Route 9 (including the Mall at Chestnut Hill with additions like Madewell and anchored by Bloomingdale's) will replace mall trips to the Natick Collection and Legacy Place in Dedham for residents of the towns just outside Boston and neighborhoods like West Roxbury? Many of the stores are large chains with multiple locations in the area—Chestnut Hill Square and The Street even host directly competing brands. Furthermore, will these two developments achieve that urban, walking-friendly vibe that they aim to replicate? Discuss in the comments.
· Chestnut Hill Square [Official Site]