The Early Years
The Village at Orange, initially known as The Mall of Orange, debuted on August 16, 1971. The mall was a pioneer developed by Harry Newman, Jr., president of Newman Properties. With a budget of $30 million, it was the first mall in Southern California to feature carpeting, setting a new standard for shopping comfort.
Built on a 63-acre site, the mall offered parking for 4,700 cars, a significant feature given the growing number of car owners in the region. The grand opening was a spectacle, attracting thousands of visitors. Anchor tenants like Sears and The Broadway were the main attractions, offering a wide range of products from clothing to home goods.
Over the years, the mall became a community hub, hosting various events and activities that brought families together. Seasonal decorations during holidays like Christmas and Halloween were a sight to behold, making the mall a go-to destination for festive shopping. The mall was also one of the few with a dedicated play area for children.
The mall wasn’t just about shopping; it was a social gathering point. The food court offered a variety of cuisines, and the movie theater was a popular weekend destination. The mall’s design, featuring open spaces and comfortable seating areas, encouraged people to spend time, not just money.
The Village at Orange: Tenant Evolution
In 1977, Woolworth’s, a famous department store, closed its doors, making way for a smaller JCPenney outlet. This was a sign of the times, as malls across America began to see shifts in retail preferences. The Broadway, another anchor tenant, closed in 1996 and was replaced by Walmart.
In 2003, the mall underwent a significant renovation with a budget of $57 million. This facelift aimed to modernize the mall and make it more appealing to a younger demographic. New stores were introduced, and existing ones were remodeled. The renovation also included the addition of a new food court, offering more dining options to visitors.
Fast forward to today, and the mall is anchored by Walmart and features a variety of stores and services. According to the mall’s directory, current tenants include HomeGoods, Ross Dress for Less, and PetSmart. The mall also houses specialty stores like Daniel’s Jewelers and Milano Shoes, offering a diverse shopping experience.
Sprouts Farmers Market is one of the tenants who found a home at The Village at Orange in Orange, CA. Known for its fresh, organic produce and health-conscious product offerings, Sprouts has become a go-to destination for shoppers seeking a healthier lifestyle.
The store complements the mall’s diverse range of retail options, adding a layer of convenience for those who want to combine grocery shopping with other chores.
However, the mall has not been immune to the retail apocalypse. In 2017, JCPenney, one of the mall’s long-standing tenants, closed its doors. This was followed by the closure of Sears in 2021, leaving Walmart as the only traditional anchor. These closures have significantly impacted foot traffic, leading to a decline in sales for smaller retailers.
Economic Challenges
The Village at Orange has faced its share of economic challenges. The retail industry has been transforming, with online shopping taking a significant market share from traditional brick-and-mortar stores. This shift has been tough on malls, and The Village at Orange is no exception.
In September 2023, the mall’s management announced the difficult decision to close the interior portion of the mall by January 31, 2024. This move responds to the changing retail landscape and consumer preferences. The mall has plans to work with existing merchants to remain open through the 2023 holiday season.
The lack of a concrete plan for the building has raised concerns, as it may sit vacant indefinitely, becoming an eyesore in the community.
Despite these challenges, the mall’s management is optimistic about the future. They are in the process of planning for the revitalization of the remaining exterior storefronts. The aim is to reposition the shopping center for long-term success in this new retail environment.
Community Reactions
The news of the upcoming closure has stirred many emotions within the community. Platforms like Reddit and local Facebook groups have become hotspots for discussions. While some residents are sad to see a piece of their childhood disappear, others see it as an inevitable outcome of changing times.
Nostalgia runs deep for many locals who remember the mall as a bustling hub of activity. Stories of first jobs, dates, and family outings are being shared, painting a vivid picture of the mall’s role in community life. For many, the mall was more than just a shopping destination; it was a place where memories were made.
However, not everyone is looking back; some are looking forward. A segment of the community is keenly interested in what will replace the mall’s interior. Ideas range from converting it into a community center to developing it into a tech hub. These discussions reflect the community’s vested interest in seeing the space used productively.
Residents are hopeful that the administration will engage with the community in the planning process, ensuring that the redevelopment aligns with the needs and aspirations of the local population.
The Future and Revitalization Plans
Online discussions and local news reports have speculated on what this revitalization might entail. Some suggest the mall could benefit from a mixed-use development approach, incorporating residential units, office spaces, and retail shops. This would bring in a steady flow of potential customers and make the area more vibrant and lively.
The idea of a mixed-use development has been met with enthusiasm and skepticism. While some see it as a way to breathe new life into the mall, others worry about the impact on traffic and the neighborhood’s character. These are valid concerns that the management and the City of Orange, California, will need to address in their planning.
Despite the uncertainties, one thing is clear: the mall is gearing up for a transformation. Whether it becomes a mixed-use development, a community center, or something entirely different, the focus is on adapting to the needs and wants of the modern consumer while also serving the community.
What Lies Ahead
The mall’s interior is set to close by January 31, 2024. This offers hope for those who have made the mall a part of their holiday traditions. Applications for removing the interior portion will soon be submitted to the City of Orange, marking a significant step in the mall’s transformation journey.
The mall’s management has also indicated that they are in talks with existing merchants to explore options for their future at the mall. This could mean that some of your favorite stores might still be around, albeit in a different form or location within the mall’s premises.
The community will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the mall’s future. Public hearings and community meetings will likely be part of the process, allowing residents to voice their opinions and concerns. After all, the mall isn’t just a commercial entity; it’s a community landmark.
It’s a time of change but also a time of possibilities. The decisions made in the coming months will set the course for the mall’s future, impacting the retail landscape and the community’s social fabric.
The Village at Orange: Adapting to a New Retail Reality
The Village at Orange is pivotal, mirroring the broader shifts in the retail industry and societal norms. Its upcoming interior closure is the end of a chapter and the beginning of a new narrative.
As the community and the mall’s management navigate these changes, the unfolding story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of retail spaces and their communities. It’s a bittersweet moment, tinged with loss and hope, as everyone waits to see what the next chapter holds for this iconic mall.
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