By RICKY KERR
Hays Post

Following demolition of the former Montana Mike’s and a bank drive-through, contractors are in the process of resurfacing the Hays Mall parking lot, as well as continuing interior improvements at the facility.

“We are asking all customers to park to the south of our main entrance effective June 22 so we can make way for a bigger and better parking lot,” announced The Mall at Hays Facebook Page.

Everything is on schedule for development and lighting for the interior and parking lot should be installed by the end of July, said Josh Vickery, DP Management director of new development.

New LED lighting will double the intensity in parking lot for increased visibility, he said.

New ceramic tile is also in the process of being laid on the interior of the mall.

The planned second phase of rehabilitation will include a new front of the building, landscaping, awnings and new exterior doors.

Mall developers will spend approximately $3.1 million on interior and exterior improvements from an additional 1 percent sales tax on sales generated on mall property, a funding mechanism known as a Community Improvement District, which was approved by the Hays City Commission last year.

Vickery said DP Management is also working to get new businesses into the mall.

“There’s a ton of interest with development,” he said. “We are working on several retailers right now, but I can’t name anybody.”

Vickery did hint that one potential retailer is an apparel store and another is a national franchise sporting goods store, among smaller tenant shops. DP is also working with restaurants to build at the former Montana Mike’s location.

Vickery said Mall at Hays Facebook Page will regularly offer updated information on development.