SANFORD, Fla. – A new Costco location is expected to come to a mall in Central Florida.
News 6 has learned from a reliable source that Costco is set to be on-site at the Seminole Towne Center, which is forcing many of its stores to close amid a massive redevelopment project.
Once opened, the new Costco location would count itself among over 30 such warehouses across the state — and the eighth in Central Florida alone. The closest warehouse to Sanford requires a drive to Altamonte Springs.
The Seminole Towne Center first opened to the public in 1995 but nowadays, the mall mostly sits empty.
On Thursday, Sanford city officials told News 6 that a deal to purchase the shopping mall remains unfinalized, though interior stores at the mall have been told they have until the end of the month to leave.
[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos]
“It is important to note, the City of Sanford has no authority to intervene in these civil matters. To make these transitions as smooth as possible, the City of Sanford is committed to working with a number of the small businesses in the mall, to assist them in relocating to new permanent locations,” a statement from the city reads.
Dillard’s, JC Penney, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Elev8 Fun Orlando-Sanford will remain open, which has always been a part of the plan.
In addition, a city official told News 6 that a California Pizza Kitchen is expected to be brought in, as well as a “chicken concept” developed by Guy Fieri, several hotels, and a movie theater.
David Fontaned, a longtime visitor to the mall, expressed his mixed emotions while walking through the largely vacant property on Thursday.
“It’s shocking,” Fontaned said. “I used to come here just to hang out, shop around. It’s not really possible anymore.”
Despite the current state of the mall, Fontaned said he’s optimistic about the changes.
“I’m excited for the Costco because I always hear stories about Costcos from other people,” he added.
The Seminole Towne Center area is valued at $45 million and is located on a prime piece of real estate next to Interstate 4, State Road 46 and many other stores and homes. The redevelopment program would increase the value to $500 million, the city said.
No additional information has been released at this time, including where in the mall the new Costco will be located and what timeframe customers can expect.
Check out the Florida Foodie podcast. You can find every episode in the media player below: