TOPEKA (KSNT) – A newly released map for the interior of a big Topeka shopping center contains hints at what changes shoppers can expect to see in the days ahead.
West Ridge Mall recently released an updated map of its updated interior alongside its rollout of a new website in September. The new map details what parts of the mall will be dedicated to the new owners, Advisors Excel (AE), for use as office space. It also shows that several spaces are earmarked for the addition of new retail options.
West Ridge Mall General Manager and Director of Operations Casey Richardson told 27 News that excitement is building as the shopping center continues to undergo sweeping changes this year. One of the largest changes is AE moving its headquarters into the space that used to be occupied by JCPenney, which closed in May 2025, along with some other nearby areas.
“In addition to the former JCPenney space, AE will be activating several other underutilized areas that once housed retail,” Richardson said. “Converting these spaces into AE headquarters plays a key role in the overall redevelopment by bringing more daily activity and vibrancy to the property.”
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Tracey Stratton with AE told 27 News the new layout depicts what the mall will look like when the reimagination process is completed. The newly released map of West Ridge Mall shows which areas will be taken up by AE on the ground and upper floors. Additionally, several spaces are marked for “Future Redevelopment” retail locations, which can be seen highlighted in the document below.
Richardson said the mall is still in “active discussions” with possible new tenants for the highlighted retail spaces. She said the mall can’t share what new stores will be coming in yet, but that staff are focused on injecting energy into the building with the new shopping options.
“What I’d emphasize is that this redevelopment is more than just filling empty storefronts—it’s about reimagining West Ridge Mall as a destination for shopping, entertainment, community, and workplace innovation,” Richardson said. “This project is designed to serve both our tenants and the greater Topeka community for years to come.”
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AE told 27 News in January this year that it hopes to add several new stores to the mall as it transforms part of the building into office space. Among the stores AE is hoping to add to the mall include Trader Joe’s, Gap, Urban Outfitters, Sprouts, Top Golf and Nordstrom Rack.
Stratton said AE doesn’t have any newly signed-on retail tenants for the mall at the moment. However, AE is looking to bring new stores into the building within the next few years.
“As a company, we are looking at the first quarter of 2027 as the move-in target date,” Stratton said.
West Ridge Mall also announced on Sept. 18 that it will be holding new live events every Thursday and is refreshing the play area for kids. The grand opening of the new Grow & Go Playground is currently set for 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 25.
You can visit the revamped mall website and download a copy of the new directory by clicking here. The mall can be found at 1801 Southwest Wanamaker Road in Topeka.
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