Forest Acres and Richland County leaders shared their vision for transforming the former Richland Mall site, envisioning it as the “true city center” of Forest Acres.
The redevelopment, kick-started by a $3 million state budget allocation, is set to begin demolition soon, with construction of the park expected to begin in ~18 months.
The new six acre Mall Park is a highlight of the redevelopment. Mayor Andrews of Forest Acres said “We are planting a park here that will serve as a community space not just to residents of Forest Acres, but for all of the Midlands.”
The Mall Park will include:
🎷 Ampitheater performance area
🥾 Walking trails
🌳 Green space
In January 2023, Southeastern Development, LLC. closed on the purchase of the 32-acre site with plans to revitalize the land with 50,000 sqft of mixed-use retail space, 120,000 sqft for a grocery, and 500 apartments. The ~$100 million investment for the overall project is the area’s largest investment in over 35 years, with funds coming from a public-private partnership.
