Grand Opening and Anchor Store Arrivals
In 1976, Sarasota was booming, and Arlen Realty saw an opportunity. They planned a new mall at the bustling intersection of US 41 and Beneva Road, promising locals a fresh place to shop.
Anchors would be well-known chains: JCPenney, Maas Brothers, and the stylish J. Byrons.
JCPenney planned a strategic move from the nearby Southgate Shopping Plaza, betting on this new enclosed mall concept…