On February 28th, WRS Inc., a real estate investment firm based out of South Carolina, purchased Lakeforest Mall’s four anchor sites. The firm previously purchased the core, ponds, and forest conservation of the mall back in 2019. Last week, Gaithersburg’s Office of Economic Development released the dollar amount the properties were acquired for, per Maryland Land Records.
- In 2019, the core/ponds/forest conservation was purchased for $22.5 million.
- On February 28th, 2022, the former Sears location was purchased for $20.5 million.
- On February 28th, 2022, the former J.C.Penney location was purchased for $6 million.
- On February 28th, 2022, the former Lord & Taylor location was purchased for $12 million.
- On February 28th, 2022, the former Macy’s location was purchased for $14 million.
A total of $75 million was paid to acquire Lakeforest Mall.
Redevelopment of the mall could not begin until all four owners of the anchor stores and the owner of the mall’s core came to an agreement, which stalled potential redevelopment of the mall for years. WRS finalized the purchase on Monday, February 28th.
The Gaithersburg Mayor and City Council adopted the Lakeforest Mall Master Plan amendments, MP-1-21 and MP-2-21, back on August 16, 2021. At the time, Gaithersburg Mayor Judd Ashman said, “a lot of things have to come together for a redevelopment to happen, but what we’re doing with this Master Plan update is laying the groundwork for it,” said Gaithersburg Mayor Jud Ashman. “When someone does come in, who is able to acquire all of the parcels and bring a plan to the table, they will have a much better sense of what the public envisions and we’ll be further along the path toward the Grade A redevelopment that our community expects and deserves.”
A copy of the adopted Master Plan is available on the “Future of Lakeforest” project page on the City’s website.
Earlier this week we provided an update on what’s still open, what’s new, and what’s closing in Lakeforest Mall.
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17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Now in its 17th year, the Kensington Day of the Book Festival is a family-friendly street festival featuring 150+ renowned authors, poets, and literary organizations. Enjoy live music on five stages, special guest speakers, military veteran writers and comedians, poetry readings, cookbook demos, children's program, and much more.
Admission is free, and attendees will also be able to explore a marketplace of books and food offerings from local vendors.
Not your average book festival! This festival offers something for everyone!
17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Sunday, April 21, 2024, 11am-4pm (held rain or shine!)
Howard Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895
www.dayofthebook.com
Instagram: @kensingtonbookfestival
Contact: Elisenda Sola-Sole, Festival Director
301-949-9416 (text preferred)
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
