A long-abandoned shopping center in Goodlettsville, Tennessee, is on the verge of a significant transformation. The Rivergate Mall, previously home to a range of retail stores including Macy’s, has received unanimous approval from city leaders for a comprehensive redevelopment plan. This new initiative aims to revitalize the area, which has suffered from declining foot traffic and store closures.
City officials approved the redevelopment on Monday, marking a critical step towards breathing new life into the mall. The updated plan will introduce a hotel along with substantial retail space. Initially, the proposal included two hotels with 120 rooms and a smaller retail area of 17,000 square feet. However, it has now been revised to feature a larger grocery store of approximately 51,000 square feet and an additional 36,000 square feet dedicated to retail and restaurant spaces.
Phased Approach for Revitalization
The redevelopment will occur in two distinct phases. The first phase will focus on the site of the former Macy’s, while the second phase will address the remaining areas of the mall. Addam McCormick, Director of Planning & Development Services, emphasized that the adjustments were made to promote greater shopping, dining, and grocery options in the region. “We’re hoping to get more of those retail opportunities back and to kind of spread the redevelopment of the area,” he stated.
The original proposal included various residential components, including a 340-unit apartment complex and 105 townhomes. While the updated plan retains the townhomes and one hotel, the apartments have been relocated within the site without affecting the overall residential density. This adjustment allowed the plan to remain at the Planning Commission level for final approval.
Community Impact and Future Outlook
City officials view the revival of Rivergate Mall as essential for the local community. McCormick expressed the desire to see thriving businesses that can generate tax revenue and provide shopping opportunities for residents and visitors alike. “Seeing that area thriving again is important for us,” he added.
Local shopper Myra Stone reminisced about the mall’s past vibrancy, noting, “It was a lot of people, you know, and like a mall would be. [Now] there’s hardly anybody here.” Stone voiced her hopes that the redevelopment would encourage more people to return to shopping in person, emphasizing the joy of the retail experience.
As the project moves forward, developers will need to submit an updated site plan for the apartment relocation, with demolition activities expected to commence soon. Currently, Dillards remains the only store operating at the mall during the redevelopment process. While the timeline for completion is yet to be established, the community eagerly anticipates the revival of this once-thriving shopping destination.
