A major redevelopment initiative for Oak Court Mall is underway, as local investors aim to transform the long-deteriorating property into a vibrant community hub. During a recent Memphis City Council Committee meeting, Scott Kern of KPS Development and Josh Pogue of Pogue Development Group presented their vision for the site, which has been a point of concern for Memphis residents since its decline began in the early 2000s.
Pogue detailed the mall's troubled history, highlighting its decline and eventual foreclosure, which opened the door for local investors to step in. "We felt that this location in Memphis was phenomenal real estate, and we could not have that kind of blight in Memphis," he stated, emphasizing their commitment to revitalizing the area. The team successfully acquired the mall and Macy's, thwarting plans from national firms that intended to convert the Macy's building into self-storage units.
The redevelopment plan aims to reimagine Oak Court Mall, which has served as a shopping destination for over 40 years. Kern noted that the project is backed by a team of Memphis-based consultants and investors, reinforcing the local commitment to the area’s future. The proposed changes are designed to create a space that the community can take pride in, moving away from the mall's past as a neglected property.
As the project progresses, the team is focused on engaging with the community to ensure that the redevelopment meets the needs and desires of local residents. The Oak Court Mall initiative represents a significant step towards revitalizing a key area in Memphis, with hopes of fostering economic growth and enhancing community pride.