Remodeling project to create a new look

NILES — An upcoming renovation to Eastwood Mall will be the second-largest remodeling project by the Cafaro Co., which owns 19 malls across the country.

Anthony Cafaro Sr., president of the Youngstown-based company, said the project will cost several million dollars and be highlighted by the addition of a food court, skylights and carpeting.

"We think this area deserves this kind of treatment, this kind of investment," he said Wednesday at a ceremony to announce the renovation and the opening of a new store, Steve & Barry's University Sportswear.

Ken Kollar, mall general manager, said he expects the work to be completed by October in time for the holiday shopping season. Construction barricades could appear by this weekend as work begins on the food court, he said.

The escalator, stairs and planters at the main entrance near Ruby Tuesday's will be removed so an open space can be created for 350 seats in the food court. An elevator and stairs for access to Kahunaville will be installed off to the sides.

Also, the walls of the units just inside the entrance will be removed as part of the open appearance. There will be six retailers in the food court, including Salvatore's Pizzeria, which is relocating from elsewhere in the mall.

Kollar said others in the food court will include a hot dog shop and restaurants that offer Mexican, Japanese and Asian food.

By DON SHILLING