On October 10, 2008, WOOMC completed negotiations for the Hickory Ridge Mall. The mall closing took place on October 24 of the same year for $1.4 million dollars.

The initial purchase included the over-90 unit mall concourse and the Applebee’s Restaurant located at the north front entrance of the mall. In January, the church purchased the mall’s anchor stores: Macy’s on the west side of the mall, and Dillard’s on the south side. The church began renovations on the mall in December 2008. The mall is scheduled to reopen during the first quarter of 2010.

The Hickory Ridge Mall Project is an innovative, comprehensive, integrated plan intended to restore, redevelop, and rejuvenate the Hickory Hill community and provide healing for its socioeconomic ills.

Apostle Alton R. Williams’ vision for the project is to transform this mega-facility into a community-effective, mixed-use, multipurpose center with a town square atmosphere, a one-stop shop of retail stores, community organizations, and family fun entertainment options.  Residents can visit their doctor, watch a wholesome family movie, dine, shop, and enjoy other facilities in the mall.

Over the next five or six years, this plan will be adjusted and adapted to the specific needs of the community, as necessary. The mall will provide many opportunities for aspiring and established business owners, religious and community leaders, local, state, and federal governments to partner and/or participate in this exciting revitalization project. It will ultimately reposition the community for renewed growth and economic development.