Simon Adding 43,000-SF Lifestyle Wing to Edison Mall

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FORT MYERS, FL-Simon Property Group is creating a 43,000-sf lifestyle component at Edison Mall, the one-million-sf shopping center at the intersection of US 41 and Colonial Boulevard. The addition will face US 41 and contain upscale retail tenants and “interesting restaurant concepts,” according to a Simon statement.

The addition is part of a $10-million makeover that also includes a new facade and the renovation of three entrances. The alterations will provide a Mediterranean esthetic and include new storefronts and overhangs and direct access to the stores from the outside. There will be additional lighting in the food court, expanded seating areas, new floors, restrooms and upgraded common areas. Work begins this August and interior remodeling will start in early 2006. The entire project is expected to take a year.

“We believe that this lifestyle addition will enhance the offerings at Edison Mall and at the same time create an inviting element,” says John Albright, SVP of development for the Indianapolis-based owner, in a statement. Calls to Simon were not returned by deadline.

Edison is the largest and longest established mall here. It opened in 1965. In 1998, it underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation that included the addition of skylights. David Anderson, area manager for Simon, says the newest renovation “will impact the entire Fort Myers’ market area. The fresh look and the addition of innovative lifestyle stores will help generate renewed excitement.” The Beck Group of Dallas is heading exterior architectural renovation, and Atlanta-based Daugherty & Associates is handling interior renovations.