It’s one of the biggest redevelopment projects in Sanford history, and right now, it’s squarely on Target. It took a lot of work from many different people, but as of this month, the ink is dry on the deal that will bring Target to the revitalized Riverbirch shopping center. After years of speculation, planning, and back-and-forth negotiations, the path forward for work on renewing one of Sanford’s largest and most beloved shopping centers is clear. This week, we wanted to give you a sneak peek on what’s ahead for the project, and when you can expect to see a red bullseye logo going up.
The first phase of redevelopment is already clearly visible to anyone driving down US-1. The structure that housed Roses has already been largely demolished, paving the way for site work to prepare the lot for the new buildings coming in its place. That work is expected to finish in Fall of this year, when Target will officially take ownership of the lot to begin construction of their brand-new location, slated for a grand opening in Fall 2027. Simultaneously, new buildings will go up to house a new-to-market grocery store and a host of other new businesses and retailers. Across the property, the existing women’s Belk will be getting a full remodel and refurbishment, preparing for a consolidation of both Belk stores into the single location housing men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing. Needless to say, expect a lot of activity off Spring Lane in the coming year.
The Riverbirch revitalization is the latest symbol of Sanford and Lee County’s economic development success. Without strong growth and confidence in our area, and without the willingness of our local officials to invest in the future through a creative redevelopment partnership, it would have been impossible to attract a new national retailer like Target or get an experienced developer like CASTO to take on the project of updating a blighted property for today’s needs. With them, a place that had begun to fade as a hub of commerce and community togetherness will be once again, and we can’t wait to see all of CASTO’s plans for Riverbirch come to fruition over the coming year.
As one final note, please remember that the outparcel businesses in Riverbirch, like Elizabeth’s Pizza and Sanford Pediatric Dentistry, will remain open during all phases of construction. Make sure to continue showing them your support as they get a front row seat to the Riverbirch renewal.