It’s almost time for the new school year to start. For some East students, that means that the time has come to start getting their summer work done and do whatever they need to prepare for the first day of school. For other students, it means that the time has come to start shopping for a new look as well as gathering supplies for the new year.

The Cherry Hill Mall has always been a popular place to go to at this time of year. But soon, it will be even more crowded with new stores and restaurants opening up.

“I can’t wait for the Cherry Hill Mall to finish building the new parts because it will attract new customers and turn into a more popular place to hang out,” said Devon Braunstein (’10).

There are many stores loved by East students that are already located at the Cherry Hill Mall. Expected to open in the fall of this year, a two-story, 140,000 square-foot Nordstrom store will be added into the mix of great shops. Two freestanding buildings are also being built at the mall, one for The Container Store and one for Crate and Barrel.

Along with the exciting new stores being added on to the mall, a Bistro-row is going to be opening by the mall which will be made up of several upscale dining establishments. A 120,000 square-foot expansion will be made to specialty store space; there will be a complete renovation of the inside of the mall, and a new parking structure. To top it all off, the Route 38 pedestrian bridge will be replaced.

The expansion and renovation of the Cherry Hill Mall has many people thrilled. It seems like it is really going to get people excited to take a trip to the mall and attract many new customers.

“I am very excited for the expansion on the mall,” said Amy Pearl (’10). I think it will be like a whole new place just because they are changing a few things.”

This revitalization process is costing $300 million. The Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust has already broken ground and construction has begun. The demolition of the building that used to be known as Strawbridge’s will take place in this coming spring.

So, you may be back to school by the time the expansion and renovations are completely finished on the mall, but it is never too late for a little extra back to school shopping to get you excited for the new school year.