Surviving Wal-Mart

"In communities across the country, critics see big boxes as the grim reaper looming over America's downtowns. Some of Colorado's Main Streets are still alive and well, but some wonder how long they'll last as the likes of Wal-Mart and The Home Depot continue to grow.And even if the two commercial models can coexist, many lament the large stores' impact on the visual landscape of their quaint mountain towns.Others argue that those big stores provide convenience and value to residents and that their regional pull actually helps feed downtown businesses with out-of-town shoppers. They assert that a little creativity on the part of small, independent retailers will keep the downtown economic engine turning."