News
November 10, 2025
Benderson likely to finish Boulevard Mall purchase this year, paving way for site revival
The closing would follow the Amherst Town Board's approval of a partnership with Benderson and would pave the way for Amherst to take control of the property through eminent domain.
**Benderson Likely to Finish Boulevard Mall Purchase This Year, Paving Way for Site Revival**
The long-awaited revitalization of the Boulevard Mall in Amherst is poised to take a significant step forward, with Benderson Development Company expected to finalize its purchase of the property before the end of the year. This anticipated closing follows a crucial decision by the Amherst Town Board, which approved a strategic partnership with Benderson, setting the stage for a potential transformation of the struggling retail hub.
The Town Board's approval is particularly noteworthy because it unlocks a key mechanism for Amherst to ultimately gain control of the Boulevard Mall property: eminent domain. This legal process allows the government to acquire private property for public use, even if the owner is unwilling to sell. However, the partnership with Benderson is viewed as a collaborative approach to avoid the need for the town to directly exercise eminent domain immediately.
While Benderson's purchase is a vital step, the ultimate goal is for the Town of Amherst to have a significant influence over the future of the mall. By partnering with Benderson, the town aims to ensure that any redevelopment aligns with the community's vision and needs. Details of this vision, including potential mixed-use developments, new retail options, and community spaces, are expected to be unveiled in the coming months.
The Boulevard Mall has faced declining occupancy rates and dwindling foot traffic in recent years, mirroring a trend seen across many traditional shopping malls nationwide. This decline has prompted discussions about the need for a comprehensive redevelopment plan that goes beyond simply attracting new retail tenants. The partnership between Benderson and the Town of Amherst signals a commitment to creating a vibrant and sustainable future for the site.
Residents and local business owners are hopeful that the Benderson purchase will mark a turning point for the Boulevard Mall. The prospect of a revitalized mall complex promises to bring new economic opportunities, enhance the quality of life for Amherst residents, and breathe new life into a once-thriving commercial center. The coming months will be critical as Benderson finalizes the purchase and collaborates with the town to develop and implement a comprehensive redevelopment plan.
The long-awaited revitalization of the Boulevard Mall in Amherst is poised to take a significant step forward, with Benderson Development Company expected to finalize its purchase of the property before the end of the year. This anticipated closing follows a crucial decision by the Amherst Town Board, which approved a strategic partnership with Benderson, setting the stage for a potential transformation of the struggling retail hub.
The Town Board's approval is particularly noteworthy because it unlocks a key mechanism for Amherst to ultimately gain control of the Boulevard Mall property: eminent domain. This legal process allows the government to acquire private property for public use, even if the owner is unwilling to sell. However, the partnership with Benderson is viewed as a collaborative approach to avoid the need for the town to directly exercise eminent domain immediately.
While Benderson's purchase is a vital step, the ultimate goal is for the Town of Amherst to have a significant influence over the future of the mall. By partnering with Benderson, the town aims to ensure that any redevelopment aligns with the community's vision and needs. Details of this vision, including potential mixed-use developments, new retail options, and community spaces, are expected to be unveiled in the coming months.
The Boulevard Mall has faced declining occupancy rates and dwindling foot traffic in recent years, mirroring a trend seen across many traditional shopping malls nationwide. This decline has prompted discussions about the need for a comprehensive redevelopment plan that goes beyond simply attracting new retail tenants. The partnership between Benderson and the Town of Amherst signals a commitment to creating a vibrant and sustainable future for the site.
Residents and local business owners are hopeful that the Benderson purchase will mark a turning point for the Boulevard Mall. The prospect of a revitalized mall complex promises to bring new economic opportunities, enhance the quality of life for Amherst residents, and breathe new life into a once-thriving commercial center. The coming months will be critical as Benderson finalizes the purchase and collaborates with the town to develop and implement a comprehensive redevelopment plan.
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Politics