PHOTOS: Empty Storefronts of Perry Hall Square Shopping Center

Forty percent of storefronts are vacant, according to the center's lease management company, Kimco Realty.

Out of 40 possible spaces, the currently holds 24 active businesses, including anchor tenants , Brunswick , and the .

Former anchor tenant Superfresh .

The high volume of businesses that have either or closed in recent years prompted County Councilman David Marks to designate the surrounding area as a . The approved the district in May.

Marks has planned a public meeting with area business owners, county government officials and shopping center representatives at 5 p.m. on Oct. 4 at the  library. The meeting is expected to focus on the center's status and methods to improve the local business climate.