FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — The future of a long-vacant building at Fashion Fair Mall is now clearer after a lengthy debate and historical review.
The Fresno Historic Preservation Commission voted 5–1 this week to determine the former Forever 21 site at 755 East Shaw Avenue does not qualify for historic designation — clearing the way for redevelopment.
The discussion centered on whether the building holds historical or cultural value tied to Fresno’s growth.
Consultants and city staff presented research on the building’s background, including its connection to one of Fresno’s first regional shopping centers. The structure dates back to 1970, when it originally opened as a Weinstock’s department store and later housed multiple anchor retailers over the decades.
A historic evaluation ultimately found the building does not meet criteria for designation, citing limited architectural uniqueness and lack of significance as a one-of-a-kind design.
Still, some commissioners argued the site represents more than just a structure, pointing to its role in shaping Fresno’s economic and social landscape.
Commissioner Sarah Johnston emphasized the importance of preserving aging buildings.
As things turn 50 years old… not just throw them away.
Others raised concerns about how a historic designation could impact the mall’s ability to redevelop the space.
The building has remained largely vacant since Forever 21 closed in 2025 following bankruptcy, after occupying only part of the space.
Mall ownership, Macerich, says filling large anchor spaces quickly is critical, as vacant anchor stores continue to be a widespread issue across shopping centers nationwide.
“Vacant anchor buildings is a significant issue in virtually every mall across the United States, and many remain empty and uncommitted today We believe Fresno Fashion Fair Mall is quite fortunate to have a committed occupant within one year of Forever 21’s closure,” said Andy Greenwood, VP of Development for Macerich, owners of Fashion Fair Mall.
Plans for the site include a new tenant: Dick’s Sporting Goods.
File – A shopper passes a Dick’s Sporting Goods store on Aug. 24, 2023, in a shopping center in Lakewood, Colo. On Tuesday, the Conference Board reports on U.S. consumer confidence for October. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File)
The company is proposing a “House of Sport” concept, an experience-driven store that typically spans more than 100,000 square feet and includes features like turf fields, climbing walls, batting cages, and golf simulators.
Developers say the project would require demolishing the existing building, as the concept is designed for new construction rather than retrofitting older structures.
If approved, the location could become one of the first of its kind in California and potentially open by 2027.
With the commission’s 5–1 vote, the building will not be added to Fresno’s local historic registry.
The decision removes a key hurdle for redevelopment as Fashion Fair Mall continues broader renovation efforts aimed at modernizing the shopping center and attracting new tenants.