Change is coming to the Lake Havasu shops as new companies move in and others plan changes.
The project began when the Partnership for Economic Development (PED) took delivery of 200,000 square feet of retail space in 2019 and began working to attract businesses.
As work continues, an update on progress was provided by PED Director James Gray at the City Council planning meeting in January.
The biggest potential change will be at Star Cinema, where six theaters will be replaced with other entertainment options.
“Hollywood doesn't make enough movies for a 10plex to work,” Gray said. “We finalized a deal for the end user to occupy approximately 5,500 square feet of Buffalo Wild Wings.”
He added that the concept is similar to Dave & Busters, with attractions such as an arcade, bowling, digital ax throwing, a golf simulator and a flight simulator.
“It's just going to be a broad entertainment zone,” Gray said.
Design plans for the project are underway and Gray said it is expected to create 80 to 110 jobs.
New companies are also entering the area, including 2020's Trademark. The 45,000-square-foot facility serves as Amazon's back-of-house fulfillment center.
Mile Markers, which offers a wide range of services from after-school care to therapy, also recently moved into the store.
Rhonda Schnable of Mile Markers said the business works to positively impact the quality of life of its members through services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy and adult day programs.
The organization was previously located on Lake Havasu Avenue, but moved into a storefront around Christmas time.
Schnabl said the larger facility will allow them to coordinate services between programs and expand activities and programs.
The new location includes a 4,500-square-foot sensory gym, in-ground trampoline, full-size play area, and indoor bike area that is open year-round.
Construction also continues on the community health center, which is expected to open in 2024, according to its website.
The center will house two buildings and is expected to create more than 50 new jobs.
The first will serve as a surgical center with four operating rooms, two procedure rooms, and recovery beds. The second will include offices, additional exam and treatment rooms, and community space.
THis planned business hours are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
