Two competing interests both looking to build outlet malls have reportedly joined forces.
Simon Property Group will now work with Global Outlet Management to build the long anticipated Outlets at Springfield along I-72.
Ward 6 Alderman Cory Jobe says he’s not sure how it happened, but he’s glad it did.
“That can only mean good things for Springfield,” said Jobe. “I know a lot of people in this community have wanted the outlets and a lot of the stores that have been talked about. I think we’re all kind of excited about it.”
The Outlets at Springfield was initially slated to open this past spring but has faced numerous setbacks. Utilities have been laid and city development officials say permits have been requested.
“It’s a highly competetive market place,” said Springfield Economic Development Director Mike Farmer. “I think both of them had aspirations to do some type of an outlet venture here in town. I think they thought about it, contemplated it, and decided ‘hey, let’s partner on it.'”
Simon has cancelled plans for its own 20 store outlet mall. It’s still unclear when Outlets at Springfield in the Legacy Pointe development will open.