Ocean County Mall Owner Has Big Plans For Closed Sears

TOMS RIVER, NJ — Shoppers were in and out of Sears at the Ocean County Mall Sunday, snapping up whatever last-minute bargains they could find.

The retailer — which announced the closure of the Toms River location in January among 100 Sears and Kmart stores being shut down by Sears Holdings — closed its doors for good Sunday night, ending 41 years in business.

The closing of the store, one of the original anchors of the mall that opened in 1976, has spurred rumors and speculation about what would happen to the spot. Patch readers offered dozens of suggestions in the wake of the announcement, from restaurants and high-end retail stores to an indoor water park.

RELATED: What Should Replace Sears? Patch Readers Respond

Simon Property Group has remained tight-lipped during the transition. In a news release Monday, the company said plans are in the works for what would be a "transformational redevelopment for Ocean County Mall."

"The plan includes more stores, dining and fitness for Ocean County Mall with construction to start this fall with completion by early 2020," the news release said. But it offered no specifics, and emails requesting further information have gone unanswered.

“We are excited to redevelop the former Sears store with uses that will benefit the community and the existing retailers in these properties,” said Michael E. McCarty, the chief operating officer of Simon Malls.

Simon Property Group owns more than 200 properties in 37 states and Puerto Rico, with 14 of those in New Jersey. They encompass a variety of uses, including shopping, dining, entertainment and mixed-use destinations.

The company earlier this year sought approval from the Toms River Planning Board to build a BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse at the mall property on the front corner closest to Sears. That application was expected to be approved at the Feb. 7 planning board meeting.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE:

• Sears Closing Ocean County Mall Location By April
• What Should Replace Sears At Ocean County Mall?
• What Should Replace Sears? Patch Readers Respond
• 49 Told Jobs Will Be Cut When Sears Closes At Ocean County Mall
• BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse Proposed At Ocean County Mall

Photos by Karen Wall, Patch staff