Speaking to GlobeSt.com, JBGR principal Jim Garibaldi says the real estate firm is not yet sure of the costs for the redevelopment endeavor. JBGR expects to begin construction this summer.Upon its scheduled January 2004 completion, Free State Mall will feature two new separate retail structures in the space where 42,000 sf of Sears formerly existed. There will also be an additional 45,000 sf of space, which will accommodate newly signed tenant Total Crafts with 25,000 sf of space. Other tenants in the 30-year-old mall include anchor Peebles Department Store, and AMF Bowling Center, Blockbuster Video GNC, and Goodyear Tire.

"We remain committed to providing the community with the merchants and services that meet their needs in a convenient and pleasant shopping environment," Garibaldi says. "The forthcoming structural changes to the center, coupled with Total Crafts entrance and our overall retenanting plans, are a testament to that commitment, and ultimately will make the experience at Free State that much more enjoyable for our customers."