Auction watch: Eastland Mall up for bid in October

For those looking for that special property to redevelop, the City of Harper Woods is offering up the Eastland Mall for auction this October. The city is looking to partner with a developer who will turn it into a place for people to live, work, and play in an “economically sustainable” redevelopment, according to the press release.

It’s a tricky offering, with part of the property staying under private ownership, including the Target and Macy’s anchors in the mall, and the Lowe’s and Home Depot on the outer regions. The total offering is about 640,000 square feet. Bordered by 8 Mile, the property is adjacent to both Harper Woods High School and the Chandler Park Academy.

Google Street View

“Special Servicer” CW Capital purchased the property in 2016, but hasn’t been able to make any improvements.

The mall opened in 1957 and by the mid-1990’s, it had declined substantially. There’s currently not much of this kind of shopping on the east side, and this redevelopment would serve not only Harper Woods, but St. Clair Shores, the Pointes, the east side of Detroit, and Eastpointe.

The concept proposed by the city shows mixed-use, open development with greenery, a hotel, civic space, residential, and shopping. It would be an ambitious and game-changing proposal for the area.

City of Harper Woods

“This is an enormous opportunity for Harper Woods,” said Mayor Ken Poynter. “There was a time when this site was the pride of Harper Woods, a destination for visitors, and a focus of community pride. We’re determined to see this vital property return to that status.”

The city has an extensive proposal of expectations for the property. The site goes up for auction October 11 through the Farbman Group.