Bertucci's Closes in Newton's Atrium Mall

The lost one of its anchor restaurants this month as Bertucci's has closed up shop in the ailing Chestnut Hill retail center.

According to a report in Boston Business Journal, the restaurant's exit brings the mall's occupancy rate to under 20 percent, with less than 12 stores and two restaurants left in the space. 

The answering machine at the Atrium Mall Bertucci's says the restaurant closed on May 14. The message thanks customers for "all the memories" over the last decade in Chestnut Hill. 

The closing of Bertucci's is the most recent blow to the struggling property, which has seen a number of stores close to the .

Over the last few months, .

The property, which is owned by Simon Properties, .

Meanwhile, the Chestnut Hill Shopping Center, located just across the street, is planning a huge development of new stores and restaurants .

Construction is also ongoing next to the Atrium Mall at the future site of .

What do you think should be done with the empty Atrium Mall? Share your ideas in the comments section below.