Southridge Mall

Southridge Mall. It is a major regional shopping center located in Greendale, a suburb of Milwaukee. Opened in 1970, it was developed by the pioneering The Rouse Company and has long been a retail anchor for the southern Milwaukee metropolitan area. Currently owned and managed by Brookfield Properties, it features over 100 stores and serves as a central commercial hub for the region.

History

The mall's development was spearheaded by James W. Rouse's The Rouse Company, a firm renowned for projects like Faneuil Hall Marketplace in Boston. Its 1970 opening coincided with the peak of suburban mall construction in the United States, transforming the retail landscape of Milwaukee County. Originally anchored by Boston Store and J.C. Penney, it expanded in the 1980s, adding Sears and solidifying its status. The property has changed ownership several times, transitioning from The Rouse Company to General Growth Properties before its acquisition by the current operator, Brookfield Properties.

Description and features

The complex encompasses approximately 1.2 million square feet across two primary levels, with a classic inward-facing design centered around a central court. Its architectural style reflects the late modernist trends of its era, with recent renovations introducing more contemporary finishes and lighting. Key amenities include a spacious food court, a children's play area, and community spaces used for events. The property is surrounded by extensive surface parking and is situated near major highways like Interstate 894 and Interstate 43.

Anchors and major tenants

Historically, the mall's strength lay in its four department store anchors. For decades, these included Boston Store, J.C. Penney, Sears, and Macy's. The retail landscape shifted significantly with the closures of Sears and Boston Store following the bankruptcy of their parent company, Bon-Ton. Today, J.C. Penney and Macy's remain as traditional anchors, while other large-format tenants like Round1 and HomeGoods have filled vacant spaces, representing a shift toward experiential and off-price retail.

Redevelopment plans

In response to changing retail dynamics, Brookfield Properties has proposed significant redevelopment plans. These have included concepts to demolish portions of the vacant anchor boxes to create space for new uses, such as open-air lifestyle centers, multi-family residential units, and hotel accommodations. The plans often involve coordination with the Village of Greendale and have been influenced by the success of mixed-use projects like The Corners of Brookfield. Redevelopment efforts aim to integrate the site more fully with the surrounding community and reduce reliance on traditional department stores.

Impact and cultural significance

For over five decades, it has served as a primary social and commercial gathering place for the southern suburbs of Milwaukee, influencing the growth of communities like Greendale, Franklin, and Greenfield. Its evolution mirrors broader national trends, from the golden age of the American shopping mall to the challenges posed by e-commerce and the rise of Amazon. The mall has been a consistent source of sales tax revenue for Greendale and has employed thousands from the region. Its potential transformation into a mixed-use destination reflects the ongoing adaptation of suburban retail landscapes across the Midwestern United States.

Category:Shopping malls in Wisconsin Category:Buildings and structures in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin Category:Retail companies established in 1970