The Parks at Arlington is turning over a new leaf with a fresh new look and a unique, new partnership.

The mall is midway through a multi-million dollar facelift that began in 2011. Planned and already-completed upgrades include a new restaurant-style food court and a lighting system with enhanced security and energy efficiency features. Other updates include improved signage, new "prairie-style" flooring, repainted handrails and upgraded lounge areas.

Arlington community leaders recently had the chance to check out the renovations at The Parks at Arlington at a VIP kickoff reception for "A Walk in the Parks", a stroll-and-shop event that featured wine and food tastings paired with live jazz performances scattered throughout the mall.

"The new mall will be a vibrant shopping experience and a new version of the original Parks concept, one that's more reflective of today's retail environment," said mall officials.

The Parks at Arlington opened in 1988 and has previously undergone two renovations and expansions. Anchoring tenants include Barnes & Noble, The Cheesecake Factory, Macy's and AMC Theatres.

Part of the mall's current renovation project includes a partnership with the other legendary Arlington park,River Legacy.

This November, the park's foundation will host a new gala event, "A Night With Nature". Gala guests will have the opportunity to bid on re-interpreted versions of the 80 pigeon sculptures that have been part of the mall's parks-motif décor for more than 20 years.

Beginning this week, the birds are available for $250 for sponsorship by local businesses or private donors, who can embellish and mount the sculptures in any medium they choose. For $500, donors can commission a customized embellishment by a local artist.

The newly decorated birds will then be auctioned off at "A Night with Nature", with proceeds benefiting the River Legacy Living Science Center.

"The City was honored to help celebrate the renovations of our mall," said Mayor Robert Cluck. "The mall and its parent company, General Growth Properties, are consistently forward thinking and continue to reinvent the mall by bringing in new tenants. This commitment has attracted 22 million shoppers to our city each year, which in turn allows the mall to generate significant sales tax revenues for our community.

"We're also delighted with the mall's partnership with River Legacy," he added. "The park and the science center are extraordinary educational, recreational and natural resources for Arlington residents. We're lucky to have both The Parks and River Legacy in our community."

By Rhonda Aghamalian