If you’ve been to Harford Mall lately, you’ve probably noticed it feels a little… empty. After opening in 1973, Harford Mall has been a place full of memories for many local inhabitants. However, due to the rise of online shopping and changing consumer habits, many malls around the United States are choosing to shut their doors for good.
In an effort to “save” the space, the mall is taking on a whole new look. The plan is to redevelop the area and reshape it into a shopping center similar to The Avenue.
In late 2024, Harford County approved a $100 million dollar redevelopment project to revamp the space. The plan? To turn the 83,000 square foot space into an open-air shopping plaza. The indoor mall format will be replaced with a vibrant outdoor shopping destination anchored by Whole Foods and Amazon Fresh, along with new restaurants and boutique retail.
In addition to the grocery stores, the open-air shopping plaza is set to offer other retail options, as well as greenspace and residences nearby.
Many locals have expressed mixed feelings over the matter. Some express their nostalgia for the old mall, but excitement for the revitalization. The mall has been described as “dreary” and “desolate” in recent years, so the redevelopment is seen as a fresh start.
As many shops inside the mall begin to close their doors and the mall empties out, Harford County prepares for the demolition process. Construction is set to begin later this year.
