Mall Makeover

Iverson Mall Becoming More Neighborhood Friendly

By Peter J. Greenbaum

   Shoppers will have reason to spend more time at Iverson Mall these days.

          Owned by The West End Capital Group since 2014, Iverson is seeing a resurgence of commerce with a new job center, dozens of retail stores, and an expansive food court in the works for the once vacant lot.

          Located at 3737 Branch Avenue in Hillcrest Heights, another attraction at Iverson is the new Farmer’s Market.  The first one was held on Feb. 17 and a second next market was scheduled for March 17.  The farmer’s market will be held bi-monthly starting in April.  The Community of Hope Church AME sponsors the farmer’s market and there is plenty of locally grown produce that is free for all qualified recipients.

          “We’re endeavoring to make this a community hub,” says James Barter, a principal with the West End Capital Group.  “A big piece of that is seeing Iverson thrive as a safe gathering place.”

          Providing free family-friendly events and activities goes a long way to realize this goal.  Every Saturday and Sunday through March 18, the Girl Scouts had been on site selling Thin Mints (Thinnie Minnies), s’mores, Peanut Butter Patties and Shortbreads.

           The Doctors Community Hospital “Wellness on Wheels” program is coming to Iverson on March 30th to provide free health screenings.  In addition, a tentative date of April 21st has been set for a free financial management seminar with Merrill Lynch.

 Over the years, the Iverson Mall has seen its share of hard times.  Today, however, the area is undergoing a dramatic transformation and the 600,000 square foot mall is being revitalized.