During the 1970s and 1980s, the space program offered the nearest mall, Miracle City Mall, the opportunity to thrive. However, the recession, space shuttle program retirement and age has all affected the mall and the decision has finally been made to replace it with a new center.
The mall has been a white elephant for several years and on Monday, demolition commenced on the structure. The mall became an eyesore after several tenants started moving out and new tenants were not keen to move in. It was also not possible to sell the building.
This resulted in the creation of a new taxing district, the North Brevard Economic Development Zone, to generate revenue for projects including the mall property redevelopment.
This has resulted in $6.5m in tax revenue being allocated, along with investment from the developers, for the construction of a new 320000ft², $60m town center, named Titus Landing. The initial plans appear to include a medical facility, theater, retail stores and an area for social events.
The developer is currently negotiating with three anchor tenants, but their names have not yet been revealed. The completion date for the new mall has been set for early 2016.
