FISHKILL, NY – The long-struggling Dutchess Mall, located at the intersection of Route 9 and Interstate 84, may finally be seeing its last wave of tenants as redevelopment plans begin to take shape. Originally built in the early 1980s, the mall never gained full momentum, despite housing several department stores over the decades.
In recent years, the space has partially been repurposed, most notably by Dutchess Community College, which established a satellite campus within the property. However, broader redevelopment could be on the horizon as town officials consider new uses for the expansive site.
Plans for Redevelopment Underway
Fishkill Town Supervisor Ozzie Albra revealed that the property is currently being evaluated for subdivision and future development. According to Albra, the plan would divide the front portion of the mall into two separate lots, making way for new commercial tenants.
“Some site subdivision is going to subdivide the front of the property into two separate lots so they can put something like a fast food restaurant or something like that,” Albra said. “And in the back, I believe they are going to sell the property or put it out to bid for somebody to put a warehouse — I believe 375,000 square feet for that one.”
These potential changes mark a significant shift from the mall’s long-standing vacancy and could breathe new life into a space that has seen little foot traffic in recent years.
A Mall Overshadowed by Growth Around It
While Dutchess Mall remained largely underutilized, the surrounding area saw robust development. Just north of the mall on Route 9, a bustling shopping center anchored by Walmart and featuring various restaurants and retailers has flourished. In addition, a nearby business park and several hotels have contributed to the region’s economic activity — developments that seemingly bypassed the aging Dutchess Mall.
Despite the mall’s faded prominence, its strategic location at the crossroads of two major thoroughfares gives it potential for revitalization. Local officials and developers now see the property as a prime opportunity for commercial redevelopment and job creation.
Looking Ahead
As the Dutchess Mall edges closer to its next chapter, questions remain about how the space will be reimagined and what types of businesses will ultimately move in. Whether it becomes home to fast food outlets, a warehouse facility, or something else entirely, the property is poised to finally serve a more active role in the Fishkill community.
For now, the mall’s final tenants and redevelopment prospects represent the closing of one era and the possible beginning of another — one with renewed purpose and economic opportunity.
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