The Inception and Growth of York Galleria Mall
York Galleria, located in York, Pennsylvania, has been a significant part of the local community since its establishment. The mall opened its doors to the public in 1989 and has been a vibrant center of commerce, a place for families to spend their weekends, and a hub for community events.
The mall was developed by Zamias Services, Inc., a company known for its extensive portfolio of retail properties across the United States. Since 2013, the mall has been under the ownership of CBL Properties, a real estate investment trust that specializes in shopping centers.
The York Galleria Mall spans a total retail floor area of 765,000 square feet, making it one of the largest shopping centers in the region. It houses a diverse range of over 60 stores and services, catering to the varied needs of the local community. The mall offers a comprehensive shopping experience, from fashion boutiques to electronics stores.
The Anchor Stores and the Evolution of Tenancy
The anchor stores at York Galleria have played a pivotal role in attracting shoppers. Currently, the mall is anchored by Boscov’s, Marshalls, H&M, Gold’s Gym, and Hollywood Casino York. These stores have driven foot traffic to the mall with their wide range of products and services.
However, the mall has also seen its share of vacancies. The Bon-Ton, once a bustling department store, now stands vacant, a silent testament to the changing retail landscape. The upper floor of what was once a bustling Sears store also now stands empty, a poignant symbol of the retail behemoth’s challenges in transitioning to online shopping.
Over the years, the mall has seen a significant churn in its tenancy. In 1999, three new retail stores, Target, Kohl’s, and Michaels, were added to the mall’s roster. These stores brought a fresh wave of shoppers to the mall, boosting its popularity.
In 2014, the mall welcomed Francesca’s and rue21, two popular fashion retailers. However, the mall also saw the closure of JCPenney in 2015, a casualty of the department store chain’s nationwide downsizing.
The Culinary Landscape
The mall’s upper-level food court has been a popular spot for shoppers looking for a quick meal. Over the years, it has hosted a variety of fast-food chains, offering a range of cuisines to cater to diverse taste buds.
However, the mall’s dining scene experienced a significant change when Ruby Tuesday, the mall’s only sit-down restaurant, closed its doors in 2008. This closure marked the end of an era, as Ruby Tuesday had been a favorite dining spot for many locals.
Red Robin, a popular burger joint, opened in 2014, offering a new dining option for shoppers. In addition, a Texas Roadhouse restaurant is located near the mall’s east side, adding to the variety of dining options available.
The Arrival of Hollywood Casino York
In 2018, a significant shift occurred in the mall’s environment when Penn National Gaming expressed interest in the York Galleria vicinity as a possible site for a mini-casino. This news sparked a flurry of discussions among the local community, with opinions divided on the potential impact of a casino on the area.
Despite the controversy, the casino project moved forward. A public hearing was held in July 2018, where community members voiced their concerns and support for the proposed ordinance changes that would allow the establishment of the gambling facility.
After several deliberations, the casino opened its doors on August 12, 2021, marking a new chapter in the mall’s history.
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
Like many shopping centers nationwide, York Galleria has faced its share of challenges like declining traffic and empty spaces. In November 2020, CBL Properties, the mall’s owner, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
Despite this setback, the company reassured the public that its shopping centers, including York Galleria, would continue operations.
As the mall looks to the future, it adapts to the changing retail landscape. With potential new stores and services on the horizon, York Galleria remains committed to serving the local community and providing a comprehensive shopping experience.
