The new Wayfair department store at Edens Plaza remains set to open next year as changes are planned for the overall shopping center with discussions to continue in the coming weeks.
The Boston-based e-commerce retailer Wayfair is continuing construction as they plan a bricks-and-mortar facility into the approximate 150,000 square foot space previously occupied by Carson Pirie Scott.
In recent weeks, the village issued Wayfair an interior construction permit, according to Village Manager Michael Braiman. He said Wayfair now has exterior facade, interior and demolition permits.
Wayfair spokeswoman Susan Frechette said the retailer expects the store to open in the spring of 2024 and additional details about the specifics of what customers can expect will be announced soon.
Meanwhile, changes are being planned for the entire shopping center, which was purchased by Boston-based WS Development last year.
Braiman said the village’s Appearance Review Commission was scheduled to review brick staining facade plans for the plaza followed by a meeting in early July to consider landscaping, traffic circulation and lighting proposals.
He said there is nothing imminent to announce regarding a retailer moving into the empty space formerly occupied by Bed, Bath and Beyond until earlier this year in conjunction with the company’s overall bankruptcy.
“The immediate focus is getting the Wayfair space ready for a spring 2024 opening and completing requirements that were included in the Wayfair zoning variations which include the facade modernization and traffic circulation study and improvements,” Braiman said.
Braiman noted an overall economic development update is scheduled at the June 27 Village Board meeting.
Daniel I. Dorfman is a freelance reporter with Pioneer Press.
