As a resident of Waterloo, this is pretty epic.
The beloved Crossroads Mall, which has been a shell of its former self since I came to the area in 2015 will officially begin decommissioning in November with full on demolition coming early next year.
While some malls still thrive in some areas, malls in small communities like Cedar Falls and Waterloo just couldn’t stand a chance. They tried a couple of other things, but it just never came to fruition. The City of Waterloo did livestream their presentation at the mall and I got some of the facts for you.
- The mall will be closed to the public starting TODAY! You can no longer enter its doors.
- In November they will begin decommissioning the mall from wiring, HVAC, etc. Gutting it basically…
- Early Spring, let the wrecking ball begin! And estimated to take over 250 days to fully demolish.
- Once demolished, pads for buildings will begin construction.
- The movie theater, Applebees, and Neighborhood Home stores will stay as they are private property and not part of the construction.
This project is estimated to take QUITE some time, and will fully be done in an estimated 10 years! Yikes….but I think that’s a ball park statement.
But what is going in there? The city is asking for suggestions of retailers, store fronts, entertainment, etc….what do YOU want!
People in the comments were suggesting Dave & Busters, Traders Joes, clothing stores, etc….there were a few Costco’s in there, but honestly? We have Sams Club just up the street. I suggested CONCERT VENUE! In the vain of The Wheelhouse, Wooly’s, 3rd Street Live, etc….and looking at the rest of the comments? I was not alone on that statement.
It’s gonna be a long road to get to the end of this revitalization, but I’m looking forward to watching the progress.
