GAITHERSBURG, MD — The redevelopment of the former Lakeforest Mall site has officially commenced in Gaithersburg.
A ceremonial groundbreaking took place on Monday, featuring community representatives and WRS Inc., the firm spearheading the redevelopment efforts.
Among the county officials present were Gaithersburg Mayor Jud Ashman and Montgomery County Council member Sidney Katz, who represents the 3rd District and has previously held the position of mayor.
“For nearly 50 years, this location served as a cultural, entertainment, and shopping center,” Ashman remarked, as reported by Bethesda Today. “Now, we are envisioning the future.”
The redevelopment vision includes what WRS Inc. describes as a “lively, walkable ‘mini-city.’
The developer has outlined a $1.2 billion revitalization plan for the site, which will feature:
- A diverse range of housing options for purchase and rent, including condominiums and duplexes.
- More than 470,000 square feet of new retail and commercial space, featuring major anchors like The Home Depot, Sprouts Farmers Market, and Landmark Theatres.
- An upgraded Lakeforest Transit Center, which will be relocated to serve as a central hub for the MD-355 Flash Bus Rapid Transit system.
- Over 35 acres of green space, linking bike and pedestrian paths to nearby neighborhoods.
The construction phase is expected to span several years, with the demolition on Monday marking the initial step in a project anticipated to generate nearly $3 million in annual recurring revenue for Gaithersburg.
This first phase encompasses not only demolition but also the development of road networks and storm drainage systems.
The site was home to Lakeforest Mall for decades, opening its doors in 1978 and serving as a key retail destination for the county until its closure in 2023.
