With the recent announcement of the closing of Carson’s in the Birchwood Mall – in addition to the already shuttered Sears and Macy’s stores – many are are concerned about the long term viability of the Fort Gratiot Township mall. One of those is Jorja Baldwin, township supervisor, who says shoppers can expect to find stores to be shuffled around in the coming months. Baldwin says stores located in wings previously occupied by anchor stores will be moved closer to higher traffic sections of the mall. Baldwin says despite the closures of several stores, Fort Gratiot Township’s commercial corridor still remains strong. The future viability of the Birchwood Mall in Fort Gratiot is currently being studied by Michigan State University’s Planning program. The findings of the study will be presented to St. Clair County Metro Planning, Economic Development Alliance, and Fort Gratiot Township officials on Monday
