It was back in late 2015 that one of Bridgeport’s – as well as Meadowbrook Mall’s – oldest restaurants did a renovation. Back in November of that year, roughly $30,000 worth of work was being done to the highly popular Chick-fil-A near the food court.

 

Mall and city officials were pleased with the work because it meant a long-standing tenant was willing to continue to invest in its property in the city. Since that was the case, it’s likely everyone is thrilled with what’s taking place now.

 

Recently, the restaurant began work on a remodel of nearly $200,000. According to Bridgeport Community Development Director a permit was filed recently to do roughly $188,000 worth of renovations and upgrades.

 

“They filed a permit on Jan. 30 and the work will take at least three weeks, and perhaps a bit longer,” said Kerr. “To facilitate the work that will need to be done they will be closed during that time period.”

 

According to Meadowbrook Mall Property Manager, Chick-fil-A opened in 1983, which means the renovation work is coming on the 35^th anniversary of the business.

 

“Chick-fil-A has been one of our strongest food establishments and I think you’re seeing them invest this money because they are profitable,” said Lalama. “This is a step, we believe, that is going to have them here for many more years.”

 

So what’s taking place?

 

“I would call it more of a remodel than a renovation with a lot of work to the kitchen area and doing work involving the floor up front along with new counters, lighting, new covering on the storefront and a new sign along with new fixtures,” said Lalama.

 

Kerr said the kitchen work is for convenience. She added that it should help with work flow.

 

“They are putting the entire kitchen operation behind walls,” said Kerr. “ … They want everything in one area and this should streamline a lot of their processes and make it easier on staff and more convenient to get food to customers.”

 

Kerr, like Lalama, believes this is a sign that they will be in Bridgeport for a long time.

 

“They are a family oriented business that is extremely stable and one we love having in the city. The mall is lucky to have them and would probably tell you that,” said Kerr. “I know when I’m at the mall there’s usually a line forming to get food there and I know people that come from other cities and counties just get food there or make sure it’s part of their stop at the mall.”

 

Prairie Contractors out of Frankfurt, Illinois is the contractor for the project. The company handles work for Chick-fil-A across the country.

 

Editor's Note: Top photo shows the outside of Chick-fil-A as work continues, while Mall Property Manager Marcello Lalama is shown below.