Closed Car Dealerships Get New Life

2,300 auto dealerships have closed in the U.S. since 2009. 649 of those have been redeveloped, becoming lumberyards, schools, chain drug stores, and groceries.

1 minute read

July 6, 2010, 1:00 PM PDT

By Tim Halbur


Sales are being held back by zoning that limits how the land can be used. But developers say there is "a pent-up interest" in attractive retail properties.

Back in 2009, Planetizen asked readers what should be done with vacant car dealerships. The winning idea (not surprising, among urban planners) was to work with the community to determine the most appropriate use.

Tuesday, July 6, 2010 in The New York Times

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