Louis Joliet Mall's Future Now On Joliet Mayor Terry D'Arcy's Radar

JOLIET, IL — During Wednesday's first-ever Joliet State of the City Address, Mayor Terry D'Arcy turned his attention to the plight of the Louis Joliet Mall. The mall property near Route 30 and Interstate 55 has managed to remain open despite losing two major anchor stores in recent years and being unable to replace them, Sears and Carson's.

The mall has also lost a number of other retail stores and sit-down restaurants, including the TGI Fridays last December and the Cajun Boil & Bar At the Louis Mall in 2022.

"Together, we are creating a vision that aims to improve safety, education and economic opportunity for all," Mayor D'Arcy remarked. "Downtown is not the only area we are addressing. We are also envisioning a revitalization of the Louis Joliet Mall Corridor. Every great city evolves—and now is the time for us to reimagine and revitalize the Louis Joliet Mall corridor.

"Like many malls across the country, this area is ready for a new chapter, one that reflects how our community lives, works, and connects today. Our vision is to transform the mall corridor into a vibrant, mixed-use destination, a place where people can shop, dine, live, work and play.

"This effort extends beyond the mall itself to the surrounding area. We’re actively working with developers to bring new housing and mixed-use concepts that will breathe new life into the entire corridor. We’re already seeing momentum on Joliet’s west side, with new businesses joining the community — including a new VNA Clinic on Jefferson Street, a new Starbucks, Burlington, and a proposed Jack in the Box," Mayor D'Arcy continued.

"At the same time, we’re making major investments in infrastructure, with several road and sewer projects underway. These improvements will ensure that Joliet’s west side remains competitive, vibrant, and ready for future growth."