Most stores at Opry Mills have been closed since the May floods of 2010.
It’s a day many thought would never come. Opry Mills celebrates its grand re-opening Thursday. The mall, which employs nearly 3,000 people, has been mostly vacant since the May floods of 2010.
Even the mall’s employees like Amy King didn’t know what to think when owner Simon Property Group halted repairs after the flood. The company still hasn’t resolved a lawsuit over $200 million of insurance money.
“I think we were all scared, especially people who were counting on having a job here, we were concerned with having employment. Now with Dollywood coming in, we’re so excited.”
Dollywood is partnering with nearby Gaylord Opryland Hotel to build a water park.
The mall retained many of its anchor tenants but did lose Barnes & Noble as well as the Gibson Showcase. Additions include a Coach, Calvin Klein and White House Black Market. Prior to the flood, the mall generated $26 million a year in state and local taxes.
Shoppers Hope for Better
Mall owner Simon Property Group is hoping to pick up where it left off 23 months ago.
Renee Pierce works for an insurance company nearby and would frequent the food court during her lunch break. She sees the reopening as an opportunity for Opry Mills to get a fresh start.
“I think it wasn’t as good as it could have been. Stores are going to be more upscale, more restaurants, that kind of thing.”
Chuy’s Mexican and Which Wich are some of the new food options.
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