Fort Lauderdale's largest new shopping center project in a decade is already more than 50% leased while the project's site work and foundations are still under way. The Harbor Shops, a 200,000 sq. ft., 20-acre center, will feature a 54,000 sq. ft. Publix supermarket. The project is scheduled for completion by the end of 2004. Other retailers include Blue Water Books and Charlie's Locker.
“We are very pleased with the leasing activity the new center is drawing in the pre-construction phase,” says Jack Loos, partner at Harbor Shops LLC. Loos' partner in the project is Jesse Gaddis, a Broward County, Fla., business leader. The shopping center is being constructed by Stiles Corp. and leased by Stiles Retail Group.
Mike Friedman, vice president of Stiles Retail, predicts that the center's prime location near the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and major beach hotels will lend it status as a city landmark.
“We are paying a lot of attention to the architecture and landscaping of this project,” Loos adds. “With its distinctive architecture and great parking, we are confident both customers and neighbors will find The Harbor Shops an attractive and convenient place to shop.”