Gainesville, Ga. — Branch Properties has announced plans for the redevelopment of Lakeshore Mall, a 492,798-square-foot retail property located in Gainesville, roughly 55 miles northeast of Atlanta.
Plans for the mixed-use redevelopment include 305,444 square feet of retail space, as well as 652 multifamily units and 38,200 square feet of outdoor community greenspace. The property will also have the capacity for the future development of a hotel and townhomes.
Current Lakeshore Mall anchors Dick’s Sporting Goods and Belk will remain open throughout the project, with the former relocating to a new space within the development.
The Atlanta-based developer, which acquired the property in 2022, will soon initiate the development of regional impact (DRI) process with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), with the groundbreaking scheduled for late 2026. Len Erickson of Franklin Street will handle retail leasing at the development in partnership with Branch Properties.
Originally opened in 1970, Lakeshore Mall is located off Dawsonville Highway near Lake Lanier. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Gainesville has seen a population increase of roughly 15 percent since 2020.
“This reimagined mixed-use destination redefines Lakeshore as a dynamic, pedestrian-friendly community hub tailored to meet the needs of Gainesville, one of Georgia’s fastest growing cities,” says Jesse Shannon, president, partner and chief investment officer of Branch Properties. “By thoughtfully leveraging the mall’s current position within the community, this redevelopment will transform underutilized spaces into a walkable, open-air environment that fosters connection, gathering and spontaneous interaction.”
Founded in 1973, Branch Properties acquires and develops commercial real estate properties throughout the Southeast, with a focus on grocery-anchored shopping centers. According to the company, Branch and its affiliates have acquired, developed and managed over $5 billion of commercial real estate to date.
— Hayden Spiess