Westwood Mall Getting Empty?

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Westwood Mall: Once a Local Landmark, Now a Quiet Echo of Jackson’s Retail Past

Once the beating heart of Jackson’s retail scene, Westwood Mall now stands as a quiet reminder of how shopping habits—and community dynamics—have changed. With over half its storefronts vacant and foot traffic dwindling, many locals are asking: What happened to Westwood Mall?

A Slow Decline in the Age of Online Shopping

Westwood Mall opened its doors in 1972, offering Jackson residents a climate-controlled shopping haven filled with national brands, local boutiques, and even a bronze hippopotamus statue that became a beloved photo spot for generations. But over the past few years, the mall has faced a steady decline. As of July 2025, 51% of its 45 storefronts were empty, with gates closed and lights off.

The culprit? A mix of shifting consumer behavior, corporate disinterest, and local competition. Online shopping has siphoned off foot traffic, while newer developments like Jackson Crossing Mall—just two miles away—have surged ahead thanks to active management, community events, and aggressive leasing strategies

Ownership and Management Challenges

Westwood Mall is owned by Summit Properties, a New York-based firm that also owns Lansing Mall. Despite multiple inquiries, Summit has remained silent about its plans for Westwood, leaving locals and tenants in the dark. Meanwhile, the mall’s general manager, Ehrika Ray, has expressed a commitment to revitalization, stating: “Our goal is to continuously enhance the mall experience by introducing new stores and creating a variety of activities for all to enjoy.”
But without strong corporate backing or a clear redevelopment strategy, those efforts have struggled to gain traction.

The Stores Still Standing

Despite the vacancies, a few stalwarts remain. JCPenney, Walmart, Hot Topic, Pretzelmaker, and GameStop continue to operate, drawing in occasional bursts of shoppers—especially during holidays. Yet even these anchors face uncertainty. One local shop, 517 Drift, recently posted a handwritten sign: “Sorry we are closed. Not sure if we will open back up

Is Jackson Big Enough for Two Malls?

With a population hovering around 31,000 and a shrinking retail footprint, some wonder whether Jackson can sustain both Westwood and Jackson Crossing. The Crossing has become the go-to destination for new stores and steady traffic, while Westwood struggles to find its place in a changing landscape.

Nostalgia Meets Reality

For many Jackson residents, Westwood Mall isn’t just a shopping center—it’s a memory bank. From dance performances and boat shows to Santa visits and teenage hangouts, it played a central role in local life for decades. But unless ownership steps up or the community rallies behind a new vision, Westwood may continue to fade into the background.