The New Brickyard Shopping Center: A Modern Retail Hub in Chicago

The Brickyard Shopping Center, located at 2600 N Narragansett Avenue in Chicago’s Belmont Cragin neighborhood, is a vibrant retail destination with a rich history. Originally built in 1977 as an enclosed mall, the Brickyard underwent a major transformation in 2003, evolving into an open-air shopping center that caters to modern consumer needs. Today, it serves as a key retail hub on Chicago’s Northwest Side, offering a mix of national retailers and local businesses.

History of the Brickyard Shopping Center

1. Origins (1977):
   • The Brickyard was developed on the site of the former Carey Brick Company brickyard, which gave the mall its name.
   • Initially designed as an enclosed mall, it featured anchor stores like Montgomery Ward, J.C. Penney, and Kmart, alongside smaller shops like Radio Shack and Claire’s Boutique 12.
2. Decline and Redevelopment (1990s–2003):
   • By the late 1990s, the mall faced challenges due to store closures (e.g., Montgomery Ward and J.C. Penney) and competition from other shopping centers 13.
   • In 2003, the original structure was demolished, and the site was redeveloped into a $100 million open-air strip mall featuring new anchor stores like Target, Lowe’s, and a relocated Jewel-Osco supermarket 13.
3. Modern Era (2004–Present):
   • The revamped Brickyard opened in phases starting in 2004, with Target holding its grand opening in October of that year 3.
   • The center is now owned by CBRE Group and remains a popular shopping destination for residents of Belmont Cragin and surrounding neighborhoods 15.

Key Features of the New Brickyard Shopping Center

Anchor Stores

The Brickyard is home to several major retailers, including:

• Target
• Lowe’s
• Jewel-Osco
• Marshalls

Additional Retailers

The center also includes stores like Aldi, Unique Thrift Store, Dollar Tree, and other smaller shops catering to a variety of budgets 7.

Convenience

• The Brickyard offers ample free parking and easy access to public transit routes along Narragansett Avenue and Diversey Avenue.

Community Impact

The Brickyard has played an integral role in Belmont Cragin’s economy:

• It provides jobs for local residents through its retailers.
• It serves as a one-stop shopping destination for families seeking convenience and variety.
• Its redevelopment revitalized the area after years of decline during the late 20th century.

Why Visit the New Brickyard Shopping Center?

The Brickyard combines modern retail convenience with a rich history rooted in Chicago’s industrial past. Whether you’re shopping for groceries at Jewel-Osco, home improvement supplies at Lowe’s, or fashion at Marshalls or Target, the center offers something for everyone.