Looks like they wanted a mini city walk.
I see more regional parks diversifying and adding citywalk type things to the property. Not many are capable, or in a proper location to do so, but to those that are... What are you waiting for?
It's very smart on Hershey Entertainment & Resorts to add a "city walk" area right next to Chocolate World, they can poach some of the guests during Hersheypark's off days to keep generating more money throughout the season. HE&R doesn't own Chocolate World, but it does run year round.