Long-vacant property set to become a hub for shopping, dining, entertainment and community gathering.
VERO BEACH — For many Treasure Coast residents, the Indian River Mall is more than just a shopping center. It is a place filled with memories of family outings, movie nights, holiday shopping trips and weekends spent gathering with friends.
Now, after years of vacancy and uncertainty, the property is preparing for a dramatic transformation that community leaders, local businesses and developers hope will breathe new life into one of Vero Beach’s most recognizable landmarks.
Demolition of the former Macy’s and Sears buildings is underway as part of a major redevelopment project led by developer Joseph Scarfone of One Investment Group. The project focuses on the former department stores and portions of the mall itself, replacing approximately 250,000 square feet of aging retail space with a modern mixed-use destination designed to attract shoppers, diners, visitors and future residents.
“There will be plenty of parking,” Scarfone said.
The redevelopment will feature new national retailers offering clothing, home goods, restaurants and services, while incorporating both indoor and outdoor elements, landscaped gathering areas and pedestrian-friendly spaces designed to encourage visitors to stay and enjoy the experience.
Several longtime tenants will remain part of the mall’s future, including Dillard’s, JCPenney, AMC Theatre, the food court and
Casa Amigo Mexican Restaurant. The wing connecting those businesses will remain intact throughout the redevelopment process.At Casa Amigo, manager Heidi Thompson said customers frequently ask about the future of the mall.
“We’re still staying put,” Thompson said. “If anything changes, we’ll definitely let you know. We’re here for it. We love that we’re staying here, so we’re just hoping for the best.”
Thompson said developers have shared plans for the new layout and businesses, and she believes the changes will benefit both existing tenants and the surrounding community.
“It’s a great change,” she said.
The restaurant has also expanded its community involvement through catering and sponsorships of local youth sports programs.
“We’re trying to get involved more with the community, so they know we’re here,” Thompson said.
Indian River County Vice Chairman Laura Moss said excitement about the project is already building.
“The community already is excited and curious about this new project,” Moss said. “Hopefully, it will not only draw more people to Indian River Mall but to the Outlet Mall as well, increasing awareness and interest in shopping, dining and entertainment throughout that entire area.
”Moss said the property is well-positioned for redevelopment because of its location, existing infrastructure, ample parking and proximity to new residential growth.
“While Amazon has had a massive effect on retail, people still look for places to go and things to do,” Moss said. “Especially new things.”
She added that the project has the potential to create jobs, attract tourists and serve as an example of successful private-sector redevelopment.
Future plans include residential development on a separate portion of the property once the retail phase is complete. The housing component will consist of rental units designed to complement the commercial areas while remaining separated through landscaping and privacy features.
Scarfone believes the combination of retail, entertainment and housing is what will make the redevelopment successful.
“It works well,” he said. “You can walk out of your house, you can go food shopping. You can drop your kids off, go to the movies and walk back to your house. It saves a lot of time and a lot of aggravation.”
Scarfone said the vision is to create a walkable destination with attractive landscaping, outdoor seating and convenient access to shopping, dining and entertainment.
“If we build something nice,” he said, “it’ll be a big success.”
For many residents, the project represents more than new construction. It is an opportunity to reimagine a property that has long been part of the community’s identity and transform it into a destination where families can gather, businesses can thrive and visitors can experience a renewed sense of energy in the heart of Vero Beach.
The first phase of the redevelopment is expected to open by late 2027 or 2028.
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