GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — Plans to transform the Gwinnett Place Mall site are gaining momentum as Gwinnett County officials announced Tuesday the approval of a $16.5 million deal to purchase key portions of the mall. This acquisition, which includes the Macy’s department and furniture stores, marks a significant step forward in a long-anticipated redevelopment project.
Gwinnett County Commission Chair Nicole Love Hendrickson described the project as a "legacy" initiative, with plans to turn the aging mall into a dynamic cultural and business hub.
"We came up with the concept of a global village," Hendrickson said, "with specific nodes to focus on a cultural arts site, public spaces, a business incubator, residential, retail and the like."
The county will take control of over 293,000 square feet of retail space on 23 acres of the mall property. Macy’s will continue operations through March 2025 to accommodate holiday shoppers before closing and liquidating its inventory.
With this latest purchase, the county will now own a total of 76 acres of the mall site, following a previous acquisition of 39 acres in 2021. The redevelopment is expected to align with Gwinnett’s 2045 Unified Plan, which focuses on equitable economic growth.
Two key studies — the Equitable Redevelopment Plan and the Gwinnett Place Mall Site Revitalization Strategy — have laid the groundwork for the project, incorporating input from thousands of residents. The plan envisions a "Global Villages" concept, featuring housing, an international cultural center, office space and retail centered around a public park.
Developers have already expressed interest in the project, and the county plans to open a request for proposals (RFP) to the community early next year.
“This acquisition is a pivotal step forward in establishing a model for equitable transformation,” Hendrickson said, noting the potential for national and international attention.
Gwinnett County partnered with CBRE in March 2024 to advance planning efforts. The international real estate services firm is working closely with the county to ensure that the redevelopment meets the community’s needs and vision.
The $16.5 million deal is expected to close in November, with more detailed plans to follow as developers begin to present their proposals. The project is set to kick off a new era for the area, aiming to revitalize the space and create opportunities for entrepreneurs, residents, and local businesses.
"This is not just about redeveloping a site — it’s about building a future for Gwinnett," Hendrickson added. "We’re excited to see where this transformation will take us."
The search for a development partner will begin in early 2025, and county officials expect the project to drive significant growth and investment in the area for years to come.