Reithoffer Carnival has opened in the Landmark Mall parking lot in Alexandria’s West End.
The carnival tradition is continuing this year, even though the mall itself (except Sears) is closed as plans creep forward for redevelopment of the mall property.
According to the New Landmark website at thenewlandmark.com, “Landmark’s redevelopment is a complex project with myriad intricacies—but one that is possible with both private and public support. The Howard Hughes Corporation continues to work with city officials to advance the redevelopment.”
The concept is to create an “open-air urban village” that includes new residences, offices, shopping, plazas and open space. Howard Hughes Corp., which owns the entire property except Sears, is still working on redevelopment plans.
The Sears property is now owned by Seritage, an entity created by Sears for the specific purpose of focusing on 258 propertyes — some of which may be sold for redevelopment. “HHC is in discussion with Seritage about incorporating the approximately 18- acre Sears site into an overall redevelopment plan,” according to the City of Alexandria.
In the meantime, Howard Hughes Corp. is allowing the Carpenter’s Shelter organization to provide housing to those in need in the former Macy’s store while Carpenter Shelter constructs a new facility in Old Town. That allowance for temporary housing expires at the end of 2019.
The Reithoffer Carnival at Landmark draws thousands of attendees every year and features carnival rides, games, food and more. The carnival will be open through April 25. Carnival hours are weekdays from 5 to 11 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 1 – 11 p.m.
