The end of an era is approaching in Chesterfield, Missouri, as the once-thriving Chesterfield Mall prepares to close its doors for good this Saturday. After nearly half a century of operation, the mall has become a ghost of its former self, with deserted stores, empty corridors, and a sense of abandonment hanging in the air. FOX 2 was granted access to the premises on Wednesday, giving us a glimpse into the final days of this iconic shopping center.
The Decline of Chesterfield Mall
As we wandered through the mall, we were greeted by sliding gates blocking entry into most of the stores. Barricades restricted access beyond the Cheesecake Factory entrance, leaving much of the mall off-limits to the public. The once-bustling corridors now lay empty, with items big and small being moved out as the final countdown to closure begins. Even the indoor spaces that were recently used for pickleball courts now stand vacant, a stark reminder of the mall’s decline.
Chesterfield Mall first opened its doors in 1976, becoming a prominent fixture in the St. Louis region for decades to come. However, as consumer preferences shifted and online shopping became more prevalent, the mall struggled to keep up with the changing times. Now, after years of decline, the decision has been made to demolish most of the mall, with only the buildings previously occupied by Dillard’s and Macy’s set to remain standing.
The Future of Chesterfield Mall
Elliot Brown, Chesterfield’s Assistant City Administrator, spoke about the future plans for the site, emphasizing the potential for redevelopment. “Certainly, it’s been a major presence in the St. Louis region for a long time,” Brown stated. “After reaching the end of its useful life, the mall is now ripe for development. A proposal is in place that will provide numerous benefits to our residents and the region as a whole.”
The current plans for the site involve transforming it into a mixed-use development, featuring apartment units, various businesses, office spaces, and more. The Staenberg Group, which owns the rights to the mall, envisions a vibrant community hub that will bring new life to the area. The first phases of development are expected to be completed by 2027, marking a new chapter in the history of Chesterfield.
The Impact on the Community
The closure of Chesterfield Mall will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the local community. For many residents, the mall was not just a place to shop but a gathering spot, a source of nostalgia, and a symbol of the area’s identity. As the demolition and redevelopment process unfolds, there will be a period of transition as the community adjusts to the changes.
However, with change comes opportunity. The redevelopment of Chesterfield Mall has the potential to revitalize the area, attract new businesses, and create a vibrant community space that meets the needs of modern consumers. While saying goodbye to the old may be bittersweet, the promise of a bright future lies ahead for Chesterfield and its residents.
In conclusion, the final days of Chesterfield Mall mark the end of an era but also the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the area. As the doors close on this iconic shopping center, the community looks ahead to a future filled with promise and potential. The memories of Chesterfield Mall will live on, but the opportunity for growth and renewal awaits.