A Brief Overview
Nestled in the Clarksville section of Lawrence Township, New Jersey, the Quaker Bridge Mall is a two-level super-regional shopping center that has been a staple in the community since 1975.
With 1,080,000 sq ft of retail floor, the mall houses 110+ stores and services, including traditional anchor tenants Macy’s and JCPenney and major specialty stores like White House Black Market, Coach New York, and Ann Taylor.
Quaker Bridge Mall is along the bustling U.S. Route 1 near Interstate 295. The mall’s location has contributed to the growth of the Route 1 corridor, encouraging the development of additional shopping centers and strip malls, as well as numerous intersection reconstructions to accommodate increasing traffic levels.
A Trip Through Time
A Grand Opening
Quaker Bridge Mall opened its doors in 1975 with four anchor stores: Bamberger’s, Hahne’s, JCPenney, and Sears. The Kravco Co. initially developed the mall and is now managed by Simon Property Group, which owns 50% of the property.
The mall’s property also houses the transmitter for the New Jersey-based radio station WKXW, better known as New Jersey 101.5.
The Evolution of Quaker Bridge Mall
Over the years, Quaker Bridge Mall has seen several changes:
- In 1977, an AMC 4-screen cinema opened at the back entrance underneath Woolworth’s.
- Department store transformations occurred in 1986 and 1990 when Bamberger’s converted to Macy’s, and the closing of Hahne’s made way for the opening of Lord & Taylor.
- Between 1988 and 1989, the mall underwent significant renovations, including new flooring, lighting, seating areas, and redesigns of entrances facing Route 1. During this time, the child’s play area in the Sears wing was removed, most fountains were removed, and the mall was repainted.
- During the late 1990s, Woolworth’s and the movie theater ceased operations at the mall.
Expansion Plans and Renovations
In the 2000s, plans were to expand the mall by 600,000 square feet, potentially adding Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and up to 100 new stores and restaurants. However, these plans never came to fruition.
The township approved a new JCPenney building and parking deck in 2008, and in 2010, Quaker Bridge Mall received approval from Lawrence Township to build an expansion.
In 2012, Simon Property Group began a large-scale renovation of the mall, which included replacing flooring, revamping the escalator in the center court, and adding a glass elevator in front of Lord & Taylor and escalators in front of JCPenney. A new food court was also built on the upper level.
Recent Closures
- On May 31, 2018, as part of a nationwide plan to shutter 72 stores, Sears revealed that their location within the mall would be closing.
- On August 27, 2020, Lord & Taylor announced that it would be closing as part of the chain’s nationwide liquidation.
Quaker Bridge Mall Today
Quaker Bridge Mall remains a premier shopping destination in New Jersey, boasting over 90 stores that serve the communities of central New Jersey and surrounding counties and cities in New York and Pennsylvania. Among the many stores, visitors can find Apple, Coach, Macy’s, Michael Kors, Sephora, and much more.
The mall provides a comfortable, climate-controlled indoor shopping experience with options for everyone, making it a favorite gathering place for friends, families, and anyone looking to shop, dine, or spend a leisurely day.
A Nostalgic Look at the Past
Remembering the past can be both nostalgic and bittersweet. As we look back at Quaker Bridge Mall’s history, we recall the fond memories of its early days, with the child’s play area in the Sears wing, the fountains, and the now-closed Woolworth’s and movie theater.
As we reminisce about the stores that have come and gone, we can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia for the mall’s storied past.
What Lies Ahead
Although the mall has seen its share of changes and closures, it continues to adapt and grow, remaining an essential part of the Lawrence Township community.
With a diverse mix of retailers and a commitment to providing an enjoyable shopping experience, Quaker Bridge Mall is well-positioned to continue serving the needs of shoppers for years to come.
Quaker Bridge Mall Timeline
| 1975 | Mall Opens |
| 1977 | AMC 4-screen cinema opens |
| 1986 | Bamberger’s converts to Macy’s |
| 1990 | Hahne’s closes, Lord & Taylor opens |
| 1998 | Woolworth’s and movie theater close |
| 2008 | New JCPenney building and parking deck approved |
| 2010 | Expansion approved |
| 2012 | Major renovations begin |
| 2018 | Sears closes |
| 2020 | Lord & Taylor closes |