Bloomingdale's Revitalization Efforts Take Shape as $78 Million Mixed-Use Development Unfolds.
The village of Bloomingdale is breathing new life into its downtown area with the redevelopment of the former Stratford Square Mall, a sprawling complex that once anchored the local retail scene. The ambitious project, dubbed "The Grove," promises to transform 60 acres of vacant land into a vibrant mixed-use district filled with restaurants, entertainment options, and housing.
Led by Mayor Franco Coladipietro, who hopes to recreate the sense of community that Stratford Square once fostered, Bloomingdale's vision for The Grove focuses on creating a welcoming space where residents can interact and engage. "We want the best users, the best uses that we can find to complement what our vision is for The Grove and to compliment our community as well," Coladipietro said.
The development's first tenant, Bloomingdale Yard, a 100,000-square-foot indoor sports and family recreation center, is set to open in 2027. The venue will offer year-round programming for children and adults, including sports leagues, training facilities, and an after-school sports program. A full-service childcare center, birthday party packages, and a children's playroom are also on the menu.
Coladipietro sees Bloomingdale Yard as the key to attracting visitors to The Grove, which will host events like concerts and farmers markets. Utility infrastructure work began in early January, with construction of roads, parking areas, lawn, and water features slated for late spring or early summer.
In terms of design, The Grove's site plans feature a picturesque man-made lake flanked by restaurants, event lawns, retail spaces, luxury residences, and ample parking. Local architects Gravity Architecture & Design have crafted the vision, in partnership with Segovia Partners, Peak Construction Corp., and Christopher B. Burke Engineering.
As Bloomingdale looks to revitalize its downtown area, officials are taking a cue from other local malls that have successfully transformed into mixed-use developments. Niles is slated to demolish its Golf Mill Shopping Center, replacing it with a mixed-use town center, while Aurora is transforming the Fox Valley Mall's sprawling complex into luxury apartments.
With $78 million at stake and significant investment riding on The Grove's success, Coladipietro hopes to create a destination that brings new life to Bloomingdale. "What’s most important for me is for people to interact with the property again," he said.
The village of Bloomingdale is breathing new life into its downtown area with the redevelopment of the former Stratford Square Mall, a sprawling complex that once anchored the local retail scene. The ambitious project, dubbed "The Grove," promises to transform 60 acres of vacant land into a vibrant mixed-use district filled with restaurants, entertainment options, and housing.
Led by Mayor Franco Coladipietro, who hopes to recreate the sense of community that Stratford Square once fostered, Bloomingdale's vision for The Grove focuses on creating a welcoming space where residents can interact and engage. "We want the best users, the best uses that we can find to complement what our vision is for The Grove and to compliment our community as well," Coladipietro said.
The development's first tenant, Bloomingdale Yard, a 100,000-square-foot indoor sports and family recreation center, is set to open in 2027. The venue will offer year-round programming for children and adults, including sports leagues, training facilities, and an after-school sports program. A full-service childcare center, birthday party packages, and a children's playroom are also on the menu.
Coladipietro sees Bloomingdale Yard as the key to attracting visitors to The Grove, which will host events like concerts and farmers markets. Utility infrastructure work began in early January, with construction of roads, parking areas, lawn, and water features slated for late spring or early summer.
In terms of design, The Grove's site plans feature a picturesque man-made lake flanked by restaurants, event lawns, retail spaces, luxury residences, and ample parking. Local architects Gravity Architecture & Design have crafted the vision, in partnership with Segovia Partners, Peak Construction Corp., and Christopher B. Burke Engineering.
As Bloomingdale looks to revitalize its downtown area, officials are taking a cue from other local malls that have successfully transformed into mixed-use developments. Niles is slated to demolish its Golf Mill Shopping Center, replacing it with a mixed-use town center, while Aurora is transforming the Fox Valley Mall's sprawling complex into luxury apartments.
With $78 million at stake and significant investment riding on The Grove's success, Coladipietro hopes to create a destination that brings new life to Bloomingdale. "What’s most important for me is for people to interact with the property again," he said.
So I'm checking the latest stats on economic growth in the US and it's actually pretty cool! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, retail sales are up 4.2% YoY in Q1 2025 
. And with Bloomingdale's $78 million investment in The Grove, I'd say we're looking at a potential boost in local GDP by 3-4% 
.
. I mean, just look at Niles' Golf Mill Shopping Center conversion - it went from 85% vacancy to 95% occupancy in just two years! 
That's some serious revitalization magic right there.
. It's gonna be a game-changer for Bloomingdale!
That's a lot of time spent on retail therapy! But seriously, I think The Grove has the potential to turn Bloomingdale into a major destination spot.
.
. Back in my day we used to shop at the local mall and actually talk to people, not just stare at our phones 
. This new development in Bloomingdale sounds like a great idea though, especially with that indoor sports center for kids. I mean who doesn't love a good game of basketball or soccer? 
The addition of luxury residences is also a nice touch, I'm sure it'll bring in some new people to the area and help boost local businesses.
.
. Who knows, maybe one day I'll be able to show my grandkids around The Grove and say "back in my day..." 
. And having events like concerts and farmers markets? That sounds like so much fun! 
.
maybe this new development will bring some life to bloomingdale but we'll have to wait and see if it's all just hype 
but seriously though, a mixed-use district with restaurants, entertainment options, and housing sounds like a great idea for the community 
And I love how they're incorporating events and farmers markets – it's all about fostering that sense of community and connection among residents! 
Let's hope everything comes together smoothly and it becomes a huge success 
. I'm not saying it can't work, but I think they need to have a more solid plan in place before they start throwing all this money at it 
I think it's great that they're incorporating a sports center and a childcare center, that'll definitely make it a hub for families 
. The addition of a man-made lake and plenty of parking spots sounds like a win-win 
. hope it all comes together smoothly and creates a community vibe 
.