City Base Cinema provides a recreation opportunity for visitors to Brooks and adds to its collection of business where people can gather.

One of the phrases that gets thrown around in the development community is “placemaking.”

In essence, we’re talking about construction and real estate development that attempts to envision a community, creating a style that attracts more customers and residents. The Pearl, an obvious example, has a clear design aesthetic. While it has changed as businesses move in and out, it’s a remarkably consistent vibe over there.

But we also know how incredibly expensive it has been to turn that 22 acres into a luxury destination.

Now consider the task of remaking Brooks. As reporter Amber Serio’s cover story this week underscores, transforming the more than 1,300 acres on the Southeast Side into a strong, growing, working-class suburban neighborhood — is something the city really needs.

One of the key ingredients in that transformation is retail. If you want a neighborhood to feel like a true community, you need places where people gather — restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores and more. Retail development isn’t just about convenience; it’s about identity.

The challenge is striking the right balance. A neighborhood built entirely on chain stores can feel generic, lacking a distinct character that makes it feel like home. On the other hand, an all-local approach can be risky, with independent businesses often struggling to survive in the early phases of development. The strongest neighborhoods get this mix right.

Chains bring stability, drawing in shoppers with familiar names and ensuring a baseline level of foot traffic. Local businesses, meanwhile, give a neighborhood its soul, offering the kind of personal connection and uniqueness that can’t be replicated elsewhere. Together, they create a sense of place that makes a development feel like more than just a collection of buildings. It’s hard to balance.

Brooks’ continued growth depends on this blend. As housing continues to expand, the next phase will be about making it feel like a destination, not just a place where people sleep. The right mix of retail — practical, engaging and reflective of the community — will help turn it into something greater: a neighborhood that people are proud to call home.

Find the full story here: Editor’s Note: Brooks finding the right blend