Poll: Will Large Shopping Centers—Like the Proposed Rivertowns Square—Hurt Downtown Businesses?

It's no secret that there are many vacant storefronts in Hastings', Dobbs Ferry's and Irvington's central business districts.

Many residents worry that with the infiltration of shopping centers like and Dobbs Ferry's proposed , even more local shops won't be able to compete with larger chain stores and also go under.

"In Ardsley, there are already nine vacant stores," said Linda Keil "How will this help the problem?"

But developers maintain that having a shopping destination in the area will make more people go to downtown Dobbs Ferry—especially with apartments and a hotel.

What do you think? Vote in our poll.

Also, how has Ridge Hill affected Hastings? Tell us in the comments?