Belk unveils $1.8 million remodel

GAINESVILLE - The revitalization of Lakeshore Mall in Gainesville continued with the grand re-opening Wednesday of the Belk women's store.

Regional Vice-President Lisa Lassiter, who oversees five Belk stores, said the corporation invested $1.8 million dollars in the latest remodel of the department store.

"What we have accomplished in the past couple of months is really finishing off the re-model that was started last fall," said Lassiter.

In addition to an expanded ladies shoe department and remodeled cosmetics department, Lassiter said the store now features many more name brands for customers.

"A beautiful Michael Kors Shop, [we] added the vendor Under Armour in the men's and children's department, Be Tempted by WaCoal...Jessica Simpson, Betsey Johnson."

She also said she sees nothing but positives in the way Lakeshore Mall management is working to strengthen retail in the Gainesville area.

"I think with what the mall has planned with Dick's coming in, reconfiguring the mall...I think they continue to elevate the mall as a whole. The whole community will benefit from that," said Lassiter.

Belk employees a total of 120 people at its two Gainesville stores, according to Lassiter.

As part of Wednesday's grand re-opening, Belk presented a check for $5,000 to Glory, Hope & Life, an organization with the mission to enrich the lives of those in the community touched by cancer.