Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to reflect that West Ridge Mall is owned by Dream Big Partners LLC, not Advisors Excel. We regret the error.
TOPEKA (KSNT) – The final design plans for the fully revitalized West Ridge Mall were released Thursday, marking a major step forward in the shopping center’s reimagination process.
Advisors Excel released the plans on Oct. 9, showing how the former Sears space will be integrated into the mall’s new future. The addition of this space adds more than 121,000 square feet for new opportunities, such as for more tenants and retail shopping options.
“This is where vision meets reality,” said Cody Foster, co-founder of Advisors Excel and Dream Big Partners LLC. “Bringing the Sears building into the fold means we can welcome both big-box anchors and specialty retailers to a space that’s been truly designed for success. Our team has worked through the complex details, ensuring every decision builds toward a thriving future for the entire mall and the community.”
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The redesigned West Ridge Mall will feature three distinctive entrances that offer new outdoor and indoor experiences for guests. These include the following:
- The Meadow Gateway – formerly the JCPenney area, faces Wanamaker Road and includes a large garden entrance with a large amount of gathering space.
- The Valley Gateway – located at the north end of the mall and features a two-level design with movable seating and extensive green areas.
- The Ridge Gateway – found in the northeast upper-level entrance, this gateway will have a playground-like atmosphere and feature a green space and a playhouse for kids.
(Photo Courtesy/Tracey Stratton)
(Photo Courtesy/Tracey Stratton)
(Photo Courtesy/Tracey Stratton)
(Photo Courtesy/Tracey Stratton)
Advisors Excel, which plans to move its headquarters into the mall, is marketing its own staff as one of the greatest benefits for tenants of the shopping center. The upcoming permanent presence of Advisors Excel staff at the mall will add a steady base of clients to support businesses inside the building.
The mall changed hands in 2023 after it was purchased by Dream Big Partners LLC, owned by Advisors Excel co-founders Foster and David Callanan. Callanan and Foster announced plans for major renovation work at the mall in early 2025 and teased the addition of new retail options for shoppers.
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