SouthPark Mall (Moline, Illinois)

SouthPark Mall (Moline, Illinois). SouthPark Mall is a major regional shopping center located in Moline, Illinois, serving the Quad Cities metropolitan area. Opened in 1974, it was developed by Melvin Simon & Associates and has been a dominant retail hub for the region for decades. The mall is currently managed by Washington Prime Group and features over 80 stores anchored by several prominent department stores.

History

The mall was developed by Melvin Simon & Associates, a major force in American retail development, and opened its doors in 1974. Its construction coincided with a national trend of suburban mall growth, drawing business from traditional downtown retail districts in cities like Moline and Davenport, Iowa. For many years, it was a primary property of the Simon Property Group before being spun off into the Washington Prime Group portfolio. The mall's history reflects broader shifts in the retail industry, including the rise of big-box stores and the challenges faced by traditional enclosed malls in the 21st century.

Description and features

The mall encompasses approximately 1,000,000 square feet of gross leasable area on a single level, with a classic inward-facing design centered around a central corridor. Its architecture is representative of 1970s mall design, featuring skylights and large common areas. The property includes over 5,000 parking spaces and is situated at a key interchange along the John Deere Expressway (Illinois Route 5), ensuring high visibility and accessibility. While primarily an enclosed center, the property has adapted to include several outparcel buildings and pad sites for restaurants and banks.

Anchors and major tenants

The mall's original anchors included JCPenney and Bergner's, with Sears and Younkers joining later. Following the retail upheavals of the 2010s, the anchor lineup has transformed significantly. Current primary anchors include JCPenney, Von Maur, and Dick's Sporting Goods, with Best Buy occupying a former anchor space. The closure of Younkers in 2018 and Sears in 2019 led to major redevelopment efforts for those parcels. Other notable tenants have included H&M, Express (clothing retailer), and a Food Court featuring various national and local eateries.

Economic and community impact

Upon its opening, SouthPark Mall solidified Moline's position as a retail destination for the entire Quad Cities region, impacting downtown shopping areas in Rock Island, Illinois and Davenport, Iowa. It became a significant generator of sales tax revenue for the city and a major employer. The mall has served as a community gathering place, hosting events for organizations like the American Cancer Society and local schools. Its presence influenced commercial development along adjacent corridors like Avenue of the Cities, attracting hotels, restaurants, and other retail centers.

Incidents and redevelopment

The mall has experienced several notable incidents, including a significant roof collapse in 1998 due to heavy snow, which required extensive repairs. The most transformative events have been the closures of major anchors, prompting redevelopment. The former Younkers space was subdivided for Dick's Sporting Goods and Field & Stream, while the Sears building was demolished to make way for a new Best Buy and additional outlots. These changes are part of a broader strategy by Washington Prime Group to diversify the tenant mix and incorporate more experiential and service-oriented uses to ensure the property's long-term viability.

Category:Shopping malls in Illinois Category:Buildings and structures in Moline, Illinois Category:Shopping malls established in 1974