Green Acres, a premier shopping center located in Valley Stream, Long Island, today highlights the first milestone for its upcoming 400,000-square-foot redevelopment, the demolition of the former Sears, Sears Auto Center and parking garage structures. Demolition began on May 19th, 2025. The groundbreaking for construction is estimated to take place in Summer 2025, with overall redevelopment expected to progress through 2026 and reach full completion in 2027.
“This latest step is a natural progression of our long-term vision to transform Green Acres into a dynamic destination that honors its legacy while embracing the future,” said Joe Floccari, General Manager of Green Acres. “We remain committed to reimagining the property through thoughtful design and a diverse mix of uses—enhancing the shopping experience, strengthening community connections, and delivering lasting value for years to come.”
During the redevelopment, Green Acres will remain fully open and operational for shoppers. The demolition of the former Sears, Sears Auto Center and parking garage will make way for a new mix of retailers and food & beverage offerings.
The broader redevelopment will also reimagine the former Kohl’s department store and will introduce outward-facing storefronts, inviting green spaces, open-air dining areas and a striking new grand entrance in the northeast wing. The shopping center has also confirmed the addition of an 80,000-square-foot ShopRite.
“For nearly seven decades, this mall has been a part of Valley Stream’s story and has played a key role in the memories of our locals,” said Michaelle Solages, Assemblywoman, NYS 22 AD. “We are excited for this new chapter as it will transform this historic property into a dynamic, mixed-use destination that honors its legacy while delivering new opportunities for residents, businesses and visitors alike.”
To highlight the strong tenant interest and momentum behind this transformation, new leases with Cheesecake Factory, Panda Express, Shake Shack and Dave’s Hot Chicken have been signed, with the brands set to join the center following the redevelopment.
“As a community destination for Nassau County, Green Acres has long been the home of shopping, community events and connection,” said Kyle Strober, Executive Director of Association for a Better Long Island. “These renovations will bring jobs, new public spaces and modern amenities — ensuring Green Acres remains a vibrant centerpiece for the community for generations to come.”
Green Acres is a Macerich property and one of four New York retail centers, including The Shops at Atlas Park, Queens Center and Kings Plaza. Since acquiring the property in 2013, Macerich has a history of strategic investments in Green Acres. In 2016, the Company opened Green Acres Commons, the adjacent power center that currently includes BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, Ulta, 24 Hour Fitness, DICK’S Sporting Goods and more.
About Green Acres
Located in Valley Stream, New York, on the border of Queens and Nassau County, Green Acres is a major regional retail destination with convenient access from Sunrise Highway, the Nassau Inter-County Express and MTA New York City Bus lines Q5 and Q85. The center is undergoing a 400,000-square-foot redevelopment that will introduce an 80,000-square-foot ShopRite supermarket, outward-facing retail spaces, new outdoor green areas, expanded dining zones and a dramatic new entrance to the northeast wing. Green Acres is already home to a dynamic mix of top retailers and restaurants including Macy’s, Old Navy, HomeGoods, Primark, Uniqlo, H&M, Victoria’s Secret, Burlington and Pandora, along with Olive Garden, Red Lobster, Buffalo Wild Wings, Chipotle and more. For more information, visit www.shopgreenacres.com.
About Macerich
Macerich is a fully integrated, self-managed, self-administered real estate investment trust (REIT). As a leading owner, operator, and developer of high-quality retail real estate in densely populated and attractive U.S. markets, Macerich’s portfolio is concentrated in California, the Pacific Northwest, Phoenix/Scottsdale, and the Metro New York to Washington, D.C. corridor. Developing and managing properties that serve as community cornerstones, Macerich currently owns 41 million square feet of real estate, consisting primarily of interests in 38 retail centers. Macerich is firmly dedicated to advancing environmental goals, social good, and sound corporate governance. A recognized leader in sustainability, Macerich has achieved a #1 Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB) ranking for the North American retail sector for ten consecutive years (2015-2024). For more information, please visit www.Macerich.com.
