One of America’s biggest and oldest malls is getting a major makeover.
Last month, crews began tearing down the Sears store, the Sears Auto Care facility, and the adjacent parkng garage at Green Acres Mall in Valley Stream, N.Y., just across the Queens border that separates New York City from Long Island.
Owner Macerich is planning a 400,000-sq.-ft. renovation that is budgeted at $150 million and is scheduled to be completed in 2027.
“This latest step is a natural progression of our long-term vision to transform Green Acres into a dynamic destination that honors its legacy while embracing the future,” said Green Acres’ general manager Joe Floccari.
The 2 million-sq.-ft. center that opened in 1956 will remain open during the construction, which will include the remake of its former Kohl’s building into a plaza of outward-facing storefronts, green spaces, open-air dining, and a new grand entrance in the mall’s northeast wing.
The sprawling mall’s major brands include Walmart, H&M, Macy’s, Old Navy, Primark, Uniqlo, 24 Hour Fitness, Aldi, Burlington, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Home Goods.
Green Acres’ dining lineup lists Applebee’s, Chipotle, Panera Bread, RedLobster, Chuck E. Cheese, and BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse.
According to Macerich, Green Acres’ primary trade area includes more than half-a-million people whose household incomes average $133,000. Green Acres is situated in the middle of a ring of regional malls, which include the Roosevelt Field Mall, King’s Plaza, and Macerich’s own Queens Center.
The new redevelopment will re-tenant former department store space with an 80,000-sq.-ft. ShopRite supermarket. Cheesecake Factory, Panda Express, Shake Shack, and Dave’s Hot Chicken have signed leases for spaces within the remaining 300,000-sq.-ft. of redevelopment.
“For nearly seven decades, this mall has been a part of Valley Stream’s story and has played a key role in the memories of our locals,” said Assemblyman Michaelle Solages. “We are excited for this new chapter as it will transform this historic property into a dynamic mixed-use destination.”
Added Kyle Strober, the executive director of Association for a Better Long Island: “These renovations will bring jobs, new public spaces, and modern amenities — ensuring Green Acres remains a vibrant centerpiece for the community for generations to come.”
