Austin’s Arboretum Crossing Shopping Center Set for Transformation
Austin, the vibrant heart of Texas, is buzzing with news about the Arboretum Crossing shopping center. This 20-acre retail strip, conveniently located at the intersection of MoPac Expressway and U.S. Highway 183, is gearing up for a significant overhaul that could change the landscape of North Austin.
What’s Happening at Arboretum Crossing?
The shopping center has seen better days, with more storefronts standing vacant and several tenants preparing to say goodbye. Major retailers, including World Market and Ferguson, have announced they will be relocating. World Market plans to move to a new site just a mile up the road, drawn by both the pending redevelopment of Arboretum Crossing and a noticeable drop in foot traffic in the area.
“When we bought the center, we were upfront with our tenants about our future plans,” explained Rob Hauck, regional manager for Stockdale Capital Partners, the California-based firm that purchased Arboretum Crossing out of bankruptcy last year for a tidy $47.5 million. Hauck indicated that the plans for redevelopment are still in the works but avoided providing specific details or timelines.
A Bright Future Ahead
Despite the current emptiness, there’s potential for something big. The land sits within an area recently zoned to allow for towering structures that can reach up to 491 feet high, roughly equivalent to a soaring 45-story building. This new zoning makes Arboretum Crossing an enticing target for high-rise development, akin to the nearby The Domain, Austin’s acclaimed second downtown.
Currently, a few businesses remain at Arboretum Crossing, including Yoga Pod, Concentra, and Sola Salons. However, there are still several empty stores, including the former Bed Bath and Beyond location, emphasizing the shopping center’s current struggle to retain tenants.
World Market and Ferguson’s Moves
World Market, known for its diverse selection of global food and home goods, is set to leave Arboretum Crossing in the first quarter of 2025. The move is driven by plans for a new store at 10225 Research Blvd, which will feature a spacious 18,000 square feet of retail space and is expected to complete renovations by late August next year. This relocation aims to better align with shopper needs, following a dip in customer visits at its current location.
Ferguson, the home improvement retailer, is also making strides. They have filed plans to establish a new showroom at 2209 B Rutland Drive, with an estimated renovation cost of around $3.3 million. This new spot is projected to be ready by late June, expanding their footprint in Austin’s bustling retail market.
What’s Next for Arboretum Crossing?
The owners foresee a transformation that could revitalize the area, but for now, the shopping center weather-word is one of uncertainty. Plans are still in formation, and the existing tenants are making transitional moves with a mix of hope and apprehension.
Interestingly, Dave and Busters remains unaffected as it is not part of Arboretum Crossing. Representatives confirmed that they will continue operating as usual.
Austin is known for its rapid growth, and the potential redevelopment of Arboretum Crossing could mean more businesses, more jobs, and more places for residents and visitors to enjoy in the near future. As we watch these changes unfold, the local community remains hopeful that the area will soon witness a vibrant comeback.
