$8 Million Refresh of 68-Year-Old Shopping Center in Bala Cynwyd Includes New Name

Bala Cynwyd Shopping Center is getting upgrades to its façades, outdoor dining, walkways, and even its name. It is being rebranded as Bala Cynwyd on City Ave. Philadelphia Business Journal E-in-C Ryan Sharrow covered the top-to-bottom renovation and relaunch.

The 23-acre commercial real estate entity has been in place since 1955.

Federal Realty Investment Trust purchased it in 1993, weathering ups and downs that included the 2020 exit of Lord & Taylor. It’s former site is being eyed for a combination of residential usage (apartments) and additional retail.

The current owners have concentrated on replacing businesses that have exited and keeping the tenant list active. Current brands onsite include Acme, Michaels, Olive Garden, LA Fitness, Five Guys and honeygrow; Federal Realty expects additions.

Kari Glinski, Federal Realty vice president of asset management, said “The new name and feel captures the essence of the community and creates a bridge between convenience and accessibility all while keeping its historical integrity.”

The $8 million improvement project is expected to finish this summer.

More on Bala Cynwyd on City Ave. is at the Philadelphia Business Journal.

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The loss of Lord & Taylor, a once-venerable brand, changed the City Ave. landscape greatly.