A new chapter is underway for one of western Massachusetts' most recognizable commercial properties. The former Eastfield Mall is being transformed into Springfield Crossing, a vibrant open-air shopping destination designed to meet today's consumers while strengthening Springfield's economy.
Working alongside Onyx Partners, VHB served as prime site design consultant for the redevelopment, providing survey, site/civil engineering, traffic engineering, landscape architecture, permitting support, and construction services to help transform the former mall. Home to national retailers, restaurants, service providers, and local businesses, the enhanced 360,000-square-foot retail center represents an estimated $80 million private investment in the City of Springfield and is one of the region's most significant commercial redevelopment efforts in recent years.
Springfield Crossing reflects a broader national trend of transforming aging enclosed malls into vibrant, experience-oriented retail centers aligned with today's marketplace. Rather than maintaining obsolete retail space, the project introduces a flexible, sustainable model expected to serve the community for decades.
"This redevelopment is about more than replacing an aging shopping mall," said John Hession, Senior Project Manager, Land Engineering. "By transforming the previous building into a modern, open-air shopping environment, Springfield Crossing is investing in Springfield's future by creating jobs, attracting new businesses, expanding shopping choices for residents, and reinforcing Boston Road as one of western Massachusetts' premier commercial corridors."
Throughout planning, Onyx Partners and VHB worked closely with the City of Springfield, neighborhood representatives, economic development officials, and existing tenants to support the transition and align the project with the community's long-term economic goals. The redevelopment received unanimous approval from the Springfield City Council following public review and hearings.
Learn more about VHB’s work in the retail market.
