LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — As Mid City Mall near the Highlands sits for sale, residents and business owners are voicing hopes and concerns about what might come next for the aging but beloved property.
Located on Bardstown Road, the 11-acre site has long served as a neighborhood hub with a mix of retail, a library, and community-focused services. Now, with vacant storefronts becoming more common, the mall’s future is uncertain — and public input is being sought.
“There’s a lot of energy and emotion wrapped up in keeping the community utility here,” said Jesse Walker, who owns a martial arts school inside the mall. “I don’t know that anybody would necessarily be opposed to big updates, even tearing down and rebuilding, as long as it still serves a lot of the same functions.”
The property is anchored by the Highlands-Shelby Park Library and ValuMarket — two tenants many residents say they want to remain, no matter what changes are made.
“We knew Mid City Mall was going to be up for sale, so we’re just hoping that things like this and the doctor’s office — they’re all super convenient for everybody,” said Jennifer Stacey, who lives nearby.
Louisville Metro Councilman Ben Reno-Weber said the property has drawn interest from developers and is expected to sell for well above its original $11 million asking price.
“I think whenever you’re talking about a property that is beloved and significant to the neighborhood, it’s great to start the community engagement process early,” Reno-Weber said.
He added that redevelopment will likely take years and could include a mix of residential and retail. Many in the community hope current tenants will remain on-site in any future iteration.
“There’s a very warm feeling about Mid City Mall — even though it has changed over the years, it really holds a place in the neighborhood’s heart,” Walker said.
Two public listening sessions are planned for community input. The first will be held Friday at 8:30 a.m. at the library, with a second scheduled for June 17 at 6 p.m., also at the library.
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