Briarwood Mall has 17 empty storefronts. Ann Arbor’s only mall has lost several businesses in the first quarter due to an increase in online shopping, high rents and the COVID-19 pandemic. City officials worry about the mall’s future and contemplate alternative uses for the large structure and parking lot. Multi-use ideas include entertainment venues like climbing gyms or laser tag, as well as a retirement community, office, and/or housing spaces that would guarantee consistent foot traffic.