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A public meeting to discuss the future of the ShoppingTown Mall property in DeWitt is set for Monday (April 7) from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at DeWitt Town Hall. The event, hosted by Ryan McMahon, Onondaga County Executive, will give residents a chance to learn about and weigh in on redevelopment plans for the long-vacant site.
Onondaga County is seeking buyers with strong development experience and the financial capacity to transform the 65-acre former mall into a mixed-use community. According to syracuse.com, the county is asking $25 million for the property but may accept a lower price if a proposal offers the best value for the community. Proposals must include sources of funding and demonstrate the ability to complete the project, with submissions due by 3 p.m. on May 14.
Unlike previous plans focused on housing, retail, and offices, the current request for proposals encourages developers to also consider warehousing, industrial, and advanced manufacturing uses. This new direction follows the arrival of Micron Technology’s massive semiconductor plant in nearby Clay, which has spurred demand for supply chain and tech business spaces in the region.
The ShoppingTown Mall closed in 2020 after years of declining occupancy. The county has since invested $8 million in acquiring most of the mall, including recent purchases of the former Sears and a pending eminent domain action for the Macy’s store. After a previous developer withdrew last year due to delays with acquiring key properties, county officials are moving forward with a new vision that blends elements of the original District East plan—such as retail, entertainment, and housing—with added focus on technology and research opportunities.
Residents have expressed hope that the redevelopment will restore community amenities lost when the mall closed. As reported by NCC News Online, local resident Nazym Bekaev said, "It was beautiful, this shopping mall, ShoppingTown Mall it was like perfect you know." Another resident, Mike Goodhines, added, "It would be great to have something going there that is maybe bigger-friendly stores, maybe bigger shops."
The county’s search for a developer marks the second attempt in five years to revitalize the site. Community members will have the opportunity to share their opinions and hear updates at Monday’s meeting. Final decisions on the site’s future will come after evaluation of submitted redevelopment proposals.