Chelsea’s Mystic Mall demonstrates the trajectory of development in the city. Leading the way is the supermarket itself, a capital-intensive project executing successfully. The former Demoulas store location is similarly thriving through its transformation. Home Goods launched its operation two weeks ago, followed by T.J. Maxx’s debut last Sunday. Spring will bring the opening of a major restaurant and bar venture by the owners of the Malden and Wakefield Dockside Restaurant and Bar, who are former Chelsea residents, at the same site. According to company officials, Home Goods has experienced strong business activity. The store was crowded with customers throughout most of last Sunday. At its official opening Sunday, T.J. Maxx drew substantial crowds. Success appears assured for Dockside when operations commence. Upon completion of the Dockside opening, these four establishments will collectively generate more than 1,000 jobs, with the vastly expanded Market Basket accounting for the majority. The mall has also attracted investments totaling many millions of dollars. Development of this expansive property shows no signs of slowing, as the Demoulas Family continues pursuing its full utilization. Future possibilities include market value housing, a train stop, additional retail establishments, and office properties. This achievement reflects the efforts of City Manager Jay Ash, the Demoulas Family, and the city’s development office under Ned O’Keefe’s leadership. What makes this development particularly remarkable is its occurrence during the nation’s worst recession and post-recession period. The success stems from foresight and planning, combined with expertise in property development and a city administration committed to growth, with various offices collaborating effectively toward shared objectives. While the recession has stalled new development throughout the state and nation, Chelsea continues advancing. Job creation remains active here. Though unemployment stays elevated, emerging businesses are making progress against it. That represents a significant achievement.
Development taking off at the Mystic Mall
