LAS VEGAS (FOX5) -
A "groundbreaking" Tuesday marked a turnaround of fortune for a Las Vegas strip mall that has seen its share of turbulent times amid the tough economy.
The owner of Village Square said the groundbreaking ceremony begins a process that includes the tearing down of present signage and an unveiling of plans for a phase of renovation.
The center has been optimistic of its future after 10 new businesses moved into the strip located on W. Sahara Avenue and Fort Apache Avenue following the center's acquisition by Westport Capital Partners in Nov. 2011.
Before it was able to attract new businesses, though, the center had seen the all-too familiar site of empty store fronts. During the recession, a number of businesses shut down.
"About 13 businesses closed since the recession, and we came in the middle of the recession. We took the chance," said Rivka Herschcovicz, owner of Rivi's Salon, which has been open at Village Square for nearly three years.
Currently, Village Square is anchored by the 18-screen Regal Cinemas theater and a number of open-air retail, dining and professional outlets. Several stores are also in the midst of renewing leases at the center.
Dignitaries such as Las Vegas City Councilman Bob Beers and Nevada Assemblyman John Hambrick attended the groundbreaking Tuesday morning.
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