We’re getting a clearer picture of just what the owners of Lakeshore Mall have in mind for the site when they begin turning it into a mixed-use development and we’re getting a better handle on the timeline for all this.
Detailed information is contained in the “expanded agenda” for the January 14 meeting of the Gainesville Planning & Appeals Board at which Branch Lakeshore Associates, LP will formally request that the 49-acre site be rezoned Regional Business to Planned Unit Development. Planning & Appeals Board Meeting • AGENDAS & MINUTES • CivicClerk
Phase 1 of the development is proposed to begin late next year and will involve demolishing the current mall, with the exception of Belk’s, building a new location for Dick’s Sporting Good, and converting Belk’s to “exterior” entry. Both Belk’s and Dick’s Sporting Goods would remain open during this time.
“This phase entails a significant amount of grading and site development work, and under ideal conditions would last approximately eighteen (18) months from commencement,” according to a nine-page document included in the agenda which was released Monday.
“Phase 2 is expected to commence Q1-2027, and would entail construction of the first of two multi-
family residence buildings, each consisting of not less than 326 units (as described herein and as
shown on Exhibit “A”). Branch does not anticipate that the multi-family residences would be
occupied by any significant (number) of persons or families with school age children.”
The meeting will be the first time for the public to formally address the proposal which generated a lot of comment on social media after it was announced in late November. EARLIER STORY. POSTED NOV. 24: Reaction to plans for Lakeshore Mall redo
The proposal had been unveiled just a few days earlier.
(Picture: Rendering provided Lakeshore Associates, LP)