Many Yonkers consumers are ditching large malls and trips to New York City in favor of small shopping centers this year.

Shoppers told News 12 Westchester they do their holiday buying at Cross County Shopping Center and Getty Square in order to pump money back into the local economy. Employees at Corbo Jewelers say they?ve helped a steady stream of customers find that special something over the years.

A $3 billion plan is in the works to redevelop downtown?s Getty Square with a minor league baseball stadium and high-end retailers. Plans for a multi-million dollar renovation of the Cross County Shopping Center are awaiting city approval. Officials hope upgrades will usher in bigger gains for retailers.