Randy Travis and Wife Invest $5 Million in Jackson Mall Renovation

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Country music star Randy Travis and his wife, Mary, are making a significant investment in the future of Jackson’s MetroCenter Mall. The couple plans to invest $5 million to redevelop the old Burlington Coat Factory into new commercial spaces.

The MetroCenter Mall, which opened in 1978, was once the largest indoor shopping center in Mississippi but has faced decline for years. Its last retail store closed in February 2022, leaving the mall largely abandoned.

According to Cory Custer, deputy chief of staff for Governor Tate Reeves, the Travises’ purchase includes plans for a Randy Travis Country Store and a Travel Center. “The Travises have made a large commercial real estate purchase in the city of Jackson,” Custer stated. He also noted discussions with the Governor’s office on potential state support for the project.

During a recent visit to Jackson, Travis met with Governor Reeves at the Governor’s Mansion. Reeves praised Travis for his contributions to music and welcomed him and Mary to Mississippi on social media, sharing photos of their meeting.

Ward Five Councilman Vernon Hartley stated that the investment by Travis is a hopeful sign for the community. “They want to get an idea of the area and see what can be done. It’s going to take time, but we have to maintain the property for it to attract further investments,” he said.

The Randy Travis Foundation, dedicated to raising awareness for viral cardiomyopathy and providing arts enrichment for children, is also involved in discussions about the investment. However, not all plans for the site have been finalized.

Local business owners expressed optimism about the rejuvenation of the MetroCenter. “This could bring back foot traffic and help local businesses,” said a local merchant. “Having more people around is what we need to thrive again.”

While some details are yet to be confirmed, the community is excited about potential new developments. Plans are expected to be finalized soon, with work potentially starting in the next month.