LONGMONT – The new Twin Peaks shopping center is going outdoors.

Outdoor restaurants with rooftop patios, an outdoor fountain, a “village” gathering space for community events and a children’s play area are envisioned for the new shopping area, according to Allen Ginsborg, managing director and principal of NewMark Merrill Mountain States, the development company that bought the mall for $8.5 million in February.

Ginsborg said Wednesday evening that NewMark Merrill is motivated to move forward quickly, though he declined to give a date for demolishing current mall structures or to name any specific retailers who are interested in being in the new mall. Ginsborg spoke at a public meeting held by NewMark Merrill for residents to see new plans for the mall. About 150 people attended the event at the mall in the space previously occupied by a JC Penney store.

“These plans are fluid right now,” Ginsborg said. “The one area we can’t control are retailers, and retailers are notoriously fickle.”

Most Longmont residents looking at an artist’s drawing of the new shopping center said they’re supportive of the outdoor concept.

“It