It was back in June when officials with the Cafaro Company – the owners of the Meadowbrook Mall – announced that a new business was coming to Bridgeport that differed from those in the post of the 30-plus year-old building.

 

Four months later, many have asked if it’s still taking place. The answer should make those waiting for it happy.

 

“It’s definitely happening,” said TJ Shaffer, the Meadowbrook Mall Property Manager.

 

The reason for the excitement likely stems from the fact that when the announcement was made, Joe Bell, the director of corporate communications for Cafaro, said this was something unique to the mall and a trend for the future.

 

“It’s a laser tag and virtual reality business,” said Bell in June. “This is going to be a fantastic addition for those who enjoy those type of things on the gaming front in a local setting and it’s going to be a nice addition for anyone not into it that are looking to try something new.”

 

Planet X will occupy roughly 5,772 square feet at the mall. It will be situated next to Showtime Music and across from FYE in space formerly occupied by Benny’s Boot Hill and Raven Rock. During holiday months, Go Calendar was in the space.

 

Many may have seen the work taking place. A permit was issued, and contractors have been going at it full throttle. Tektron Industries is doing the work and a building permit for $20,000 was filed on Sept. 9.

 

“As of this week, they’re putting in the new wall to put in the laser tag arena. They are also demolishing a bathroom that will become a party room and put a restroom back there as well,” said Shaffer. “The bathrooms are being done to meet ADA approval.”

 

Along with the laser tag there will be some other amenities. For those waiting, there will be a handful of arcade games near the front of the store.

 

“From the blueprints, this looks really good. I remember doing laser tag at Valley Worlds of Fun (now closed). I’m personally looking forward to this and it’s also going to give the children in the area something really fun to do,” said Shaffer.

 

As for the opening, Shaffer wasn’t certain. However, he said the contractor had told him that the work should be done in a couple of weeks. If that happens, barring something unusual it should be ready for the upcoming holiday shopping season.

 

“I think this is great. Malls have traditionally been almost exclusively retail, but that’s changing to see more attractions on the amusement and entertainment front,” said Shaffer. “What’s positive about that is that it will help the retailers out. It’s very possible kids going to play there will see something at an American Eagle or Spencer’s and check that out as well. It’s a winning combination.”

 

Editor"s Note: Top photo shows work inside the Planet X, whie bottom photo is an aerial near the mall.