Background
The City is actively involved in the revitalization of the Eastland area. Building off the Eastland Area plan (2003), Council included Eastland as one of five priority corridors for redevelopment in its 2006 Business Corridor Revitalization Strategic Plan.
Being the "center" of the Eastland area, Council and City staff have focused revitalization efforts on Eastland Mall. Built in 1975 on 90 acres, Eastland was the first regional mall in the state. In recent years the mall has experienced decline due to changing retail formats as well as an influx of competition.
City Commitment
In 2007, the City worked with the Urban Land Institute (ULI), a public policy research and educational organization, to conduct a study regarding potential uses of Eastland Mall. The ULI's final report recommended the site be transformed into a mixed-use town center, complete with:
- residential;
- retail;
- civic; and
- community uses
Since the completion of the report, staff has been working towards the implementation of the ULI's plan, including:
- Initiating conversations with existing landowners
- Meeting with civic and public sector entities regarding potential east-side space needs |
Recent Activity
The City signed an option agreement on the vacant Belk property in April. The option period ends Nov. 30, 2008 with the potential for a 90-day extension. During the option period the City will:
- Conduct environmental study
- Prepare phased development plans
- Explore interest of private developers
|
|
|
|
