Lakeland Square Mall, situated on the northern side of Lakeland, Florida, has been a shopping cornerstone for Polk County for over three decades. It opened in 1988, providing a retail oasis between Tampa and Orlando, particularly for those journeying along the I-4.
The developer, Edward J. DeBartolo Corporation and Homart Development Company, originally envisioned the mall as a bustling hub filled with various stores and services. Over the years, the mall has been home to 100 stores and services, with seven anchor tenants making their mark on its landscape.
The initial anchors were Mervyn’s, Belk, and Sears, with Maison Blanche and J. C. Penney joining the ranks shortly after. The mall saw numerous changes, with anchors replacing each other over the years. For example, Dillard’s turned to Mervyn’s in 1997, while Burlington Coat Factory filled the void left by Belk in 2007.
By 2013, Cinemark Theatres and Sports Authority were added to the mix, repurposing the space once occupied by Mervyn’s. This dynamic retail journey has been a significant part of the mall’s history.
The Turn of the Tide: A Wave of Closures
As the years passed, the Lakeland Square Mall faced challenging times as several key tenants closed their doors. However, this period marked a turning point for the mall, beginning in 2015 when the Sears property was sold to Seritage Growth Properties. Following this, Sports Authority closed down in 2016, a part of a nationwide chain closure.
Macy’s followed suit in 2017, leaving an ample retail space later filled by Resale America in 2019. Sears also closed down in 2018, marking the end of an era. Finally, in 2022, Burlington moved out of the mall, relocating to the Shoppes of Lakeland shopping center.
These closures signified a changing retail landscape, with the mall needing to adapt and evolve to continue to serve the community.
A New Chapter: The Flacks Group and the Vision of Redevelopment
In the face of these changes, an opportunity for redevelopment arose. The Flacks Group, a Miami-based private equity firm, saw potential in the closed Sears building. Their vision is to transform the 11-acre space into a vibrant residential community with 320 apartments.
This redevelopment plan would revitalize the Sears building and bring new energy to the Lakeland Square Mall. A site plan by FK Architecture includes three- and four-story apartment buildings, a ground-level clubhouse, and various community amenities such as a yoga garden, dog park, and a community lawn and events area.
With a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, the new construction would provide diverse housing options, attracting a wide range of residents.
Looking Towards the Future: The Potential Impact of the Redevelopment
This transformation promises to bring new life to the mall and the surrounding area. The location, right next to the bustling Lakeland Square Mall with its movie theater and remaining anchor stores like JCPenney and Dillard’s, is considered a key advantage.
The hope is that the new residential community will not only benefit from the mall’s amenities but will also help the mall by increasing foot traffic and patronage. In addition, the advent of a bustling residential community next to the mall could help to revitalize the mall, ushering in a new era of prosperity and growth.
Thus, while the Lakeland Square Mall has seen a fair share of highs and lows, the future seems bright. The planned redevelopment is a testament to the mall’s resilience and adaptability, demonstrating that change can bring about new opportunities and beginnings.
A Walk Down Memory Lane: The Mall’s Contribution to the Community
During all the changes, it’s essential to remember Lakeland Square Mall’s significant role in the community. Over the years, it has been more than just a shopping center; it has been a social hub, a place for friends to meet, families to spend time together, and memories to be made.
Countless individuals have spent their weekends exploring the various stores, catching a movie at the Cinemark Theatres, or simply enjoying a stroll through the mall.
While the mall has seen a shift in its retail landscape over the years, some things remain constant. Dillard’s, Resale America, and J. C. Penney continue to serve their loyal customers.
The Urban Air Adventure Park, which filled the void left by Sports Authority in 2018, provides a fun and engaging space for children and adults. Despite adversity, Lakeland Square Mall has continued to be a place for the community to come together.
Conclusion
The story of Lakeland Square Mall is one of nostalgia, resilience, and transformation. It has witnessed the comings and goings of various businesses, faced the challenges of a changing retail environment, and now stands at the brink of a new redevelopment era.
Yet, throughout all these changes, the mall has remained an integral part of the Lakeland, Florida, community. As we look forward to the future, we hold on to the memories of the past, cherishing the times we’ve spent in the mall and anticipating the new experiences that await us in the years to come.
I’ve always said. Empty buildings should be used by all medical fields. DR’s. Dental, pediatricians, all professionals.
Should use instead of building new. Use existing. Wonderful Idea for senior to have apartments close to stores of walking distance..
Absolutely, Some of the seniors use the mall to get their walks in before the stores open.
Should be a Costco close on it Brandon an Orlando , Costco would bring life to the mall
Yes please!!!
We have 2 Sam’s Cubs. Why a Costco?
What we need is a Costco or BJs. The apartment idea is nice if we had a totally renovated mall with more stores and more designers names, and looked appealing and modern. I don’t go to this mall so often, maybe like twice a year because instead of wasting my time I better go to Tampa, Brandon or Orlando. This is Lakeland and that mall doesn’t represent.
It would just be more housing the people who already live here, can’t afford. Nice in theory but wouldn’t work out for most around here unfortunately
We need housing, hopefully at reasonable prices. Would be perfect for seniors I especially the food court. Walk in clinics and more. Hair salon……