It's hard to know whether to call this announcement a ray of hope or another indication of the downward slide of Hickory Hollow Mall. The Metro Police Department is setting up an office and a recruiting kiosk in a shopping venue that has seen its share of trouble over the years.
As well as security issues and store closings, Hickory Hollow Mall has been in the news because Metro Council members representing Antioch have called for tax increment financing in response to the deal that was finally cut for the Bellevue Mall.
There's no doubt that shoppers and employees at Hickory Hollow need added security. 37013, the Zip Code for the mall, has one of the highest crime rates in the city and it increased from 2006 to 2007. Hickory Hollow Mall was also the site of Antioch's Night Out Against Crime rally.
But how will a police presence play with prospective retail clients? Will it give them confidence or confirm that they ought to look elsewhere? Regardless, safety comes first. I hope it's one of many steps to improve the quality of life for the residents of Southeast Davidson County.
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