Boynton Beach, Fla. – After more than four decades of serving shoppers and small businesses, the Boynton Beach Mall will close its doors in early 2027. Homebuilder Lennar Corp. disclosed that it intends to acquire the 1985‑built property and redevelop the 70‑acre site into a mixed‑use neighborhood that could include single‑family attached homes, retail storefronts, office space, open areas and civic facilities.
Community reaction and business impact
Long‑time patrons expressed a mix of nostalgia and concern. “We’ve been here for over 30 years. We remember when the mall was quite popular. We already lost Sears, so now we’re going to lose the whole mall,” said one regular shopper.
Local merchants also voiced uncertainty. Michael Raad, who has operated a jewelry shop in the mall for 12 years, told reporters, “We built the business for the last 12 years. We worked really hard to get it to that level. I’m not against it, but I have seen a lot of the people in here. They’re losing this place. There’s a lot of memories in this place for sure.” Raad is currently seeking a new location for his store.
Lennar’s early vision
Lennar’s preliminary plans call for a walkable neighborhood that blends residential, commercial and public uses. The developer emphasized that the project is still in the early planning stage and that community input will be sought before final designs are approved. “Our goal is to create a vibrant, family‑friendly environment that supports both living and working,” a Lennar spokesperson said.
Lease terminations and timeline
The mall’s current owner, Washington Prime Group, has already notified tenants that their leases will be terminated, with a vacancy deadline of January 15, 2027. While no definitive construction schedule has been released, the announcement signals a clear shift from a traditional retail center to a modern, mixed‑use development that aligns with broader trends in suburban land use.
What this means for Boynton Beach
City officials have not yet weighed in on the proposal, but the redevelopment could bring new housing options, job opportunities and increased tax revenue to Boynton Beach. At the same time, the loss of the mall will remove a long‑standing gathering place for residents, underscoring the importance of preserving community memory as the site evolves.
Stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming public meetings and planning sessions, which will provide a forum for residents to share their thoughts on the future of the former mall site.
Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.
