Ford City Mall closes before deadline amid safety concerns; buyer wants to redevelop property

Ford City Mall has closed ahead of schedule in Chicago after the city filed an emergency motion citing safety concerns, with a court-ordered deadline of noon Monday. On Sunday, shoppers reported the doors were already locked, cutting off visits to a venue described by residents as a longtime community hub on the South and Southwest sides. The city’s filing referenced a defective fire suppression system and other health and safety issues, and noted the mall opened in 1965 and once hosted more than 100 stores. Alderman Derrick Curtis of the 18th Ward called the situation bittersweet, pointing to chronic leaks and the lack of fire suppression. Curtis said he is meeting Monday with a potential buyer interested in redeveloping the property, and a rally will also be held to discuss revitalization.