Memphis mall to receive divine makeover
Church plans to transform the former Hickory Ridge mall into a wholesome Christian fun plex
By: Martina Ballard
Issue date: 10/30/08 Section: News
Years of increased crime in the Hickory Hill community has prompted several business owners and residents to jump ship. As a result, the neighborhood is filled with vacant retail spaces to remind passersby of how the neighborhood once flourished. Now, some residents of the community are taking a stand to revitalize the neighborhood-one that includes relying on a higher power.
The World Overcomers Outreach Ministries Church purchased the Hickory Ridge Mall in early October for 1.4 million dollars. The purchase included the mall minus the anchor stores, and it included the Applebee's restaurant located just outside of the mall.
They plan to make the space a family friendly environment including something for people of all ages.
Plans for the space currently include a movie theater, retail space and even a kid friendly zone they said would be similar to the Incredible Pizza Company. The mall may be undergoing renovations to make way for the new additions, but one old feature will remain. The multi-level carrousel will be up and running again once the mall is reopened.
The new space will potentially feature several community services such as domestic violence classes, employment training, a pharmacy, legal services, counseling and mortgage assistance.
Albert Cousins, director of Economic Development for the church, said the Applebee's restaurant will be converted into a Christian singles bar, but there will be no "bumping and grinding" here folks.
He said the place will be a wholesome atmosphere where singles can mingle while listening to Christian music, eating food or watching the big game on television. Additionally, the new bar will have a no alcohol policy.
Cousins said the project would greatly improve the dying community.
"We figured if we could create some kind of synergy there and have bodies and people and cars coming back to the mall, it will help all of the retailers around that mall do better," Cousins said. "We're looking to create an economic boost for the community."
The World Overcomers Outreach Ministries Church purchased the Hickory Ridge Mall in early October for 1.4 million dollars. The purchase included the mall minus the anchor stores, and it included the Applebee's restaurant located just outside of the mall.
They plan to make the space a family friendly environment including something for people of all ages.
Plans for the space currently include a movie theater, retail space and even a kid friendly zone they said would be similar to the Incredible Pizza Company. The mall may be undergoing renovations to make way for the new additions, but one old feature will remain. The multi-level carrousel will be up and running again once the mall is reopened.
The new space will potentially feature several community services such as domestic violence classes, employment training, a pharmacy, legal services, counseling and mortgage assistance.
Albert Cousins, director of Economic Development for the church, said the Applebee's restaurant will be converted into a Christian singles bar, but there will be no "bumping and grinding" here folks.
He said the place will be a wholesome atmosphere where singles can mingle while listening to Christian music, eating food or watching the big game on television. Additionally, the new bar will have a no alcohol policy.
Cousins said the project would greatly improve the dying community.
"We figured if we could create some kind of synergy there and have bodies and people and cars coming back to the mall, it will help all of the retailers around that mall do better," Cousins said. "We're looking to create an economic boost for the community."