When I moved here 5 years ago, the Richland Mall was still talked about as the mall, very innovative in its indoor design. I had seen many indoor malls; it was novel for this area filled with strip malls.
But it was sagging behind. Hard times befell Mansfield and as industries moved out to cheaper new locations, the retail stores felt the hit, and the Richland Mall reflected this.
A little over a two years ago, Westfield bought out the Richland Mall and went to work on it. There has been much improvement to the Mall, as vendors seem to be coming back, there are not as many empty store fronts, there are renovations going on to the stores that have been there for a long time.
A boost also comes in the takeover of Lazarus stores by Macys and the change of name to Macys. I am more familiar with Macys and it seems to be attracting attention. The food court is not quite full but the businesses that were there have remained.
It is clean, the staff appears to be larger than it was, and they are helpful and courteous. There are also events being held at the Mall to bring shoppers in. The parking lot is being repaired in places, repaved in others.
The Westfield management seems to be improving the Mall, attracting businesses and keeping them. Its a good move on their part, and one which benefits Mansfield.
more