Mixed-Use Projects Are:

When things get tough, mix it up. If it weren't so cheesy,that might be a good saying for respondents of last week's QuickPoll, 81% of which stated their belief that mixed-use projects are"More Important Than Ever," leaving only 19% who thought theprojects were "Not as Practical in This Economy." Carey Levy,president of Irvine, CA-based Passco Companies Development LLC,believes mixed-use projects will have a tough time, but in thelong-run, when the squeamishness in the financing markets eases,such projects will regain favor in the development communitybecause they serve a social purpose.

I do believe that mixed-use is a very viable development option,and I think it's a much needed product type. Most of these projectsare going to go into infill metropolitan areas, and most of thisdevelopment is occurring in either in blighted areas, or it's aredevelopment component, a teardown, or a repositioning ofproperties, so that's a good thing. Mixed-use projects also giveyoung professionals a lifestyle are seeking, they give them anoption to live, and work and shop in the same environment. That'swhat they want today.