As a kid growing up in rural Aroostook County, a trip to the Bangor Mall was a real adventure.

I was always amazed by the number of stores, the smells, and all of the people!  I know that it sounds really lame, but I used to get so excited about a Bangor Mall visit.

Sadly, like a lot of malls across the United States, the Bangor Mall has fallen on hard times.  While the downturn started in the 20-teens, it really picked up in the wake of the pandemic.

These days, the mall is just a shadow of its former self.

Adding to the troubles, the mall owners were recently sued twice by the City of Bangor.  You can read about those lawsuits HERE.

However, it looks like big changes could be coming to the mall.

Google Maps / Canva
Google Maps / Canva
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A New Bill Before the Maine Legislature

According to a recent article on the WABI website, the aging mall could soon be sold the MaineHousing.

The bill, sponsored by Bangor Senator Joe Baldacci, would allow MaineHousing the negotiate with the owners of the mall.  If a deal for the sale cannot be agreed to within 18 months, the state could end up seizing the property.

As it is currently going through the revisor’s office, it has not yet been introduced in the Maine Legislature.

The hope is that the mall could be converted into a mixture of retail spaces and affordable apartments.

It is not the first time we have seen such a concept work here in New England.  The 200-year-old Arcade Providence, one of America's first indoor malls, has recently been converted into a mixture of retail space and apartments.

READ MORE: Did You Know That Augusta Was Almost Home to a Massive Indoor Shopping Mal?

There is no timeframe on when we could see this bill become law.

What are your thoughts on the idea?  Let us know by sending us a message in our app.

Do You Remember These Bangor Mall Stores & Restaurants?

Thanks to the Zayre88 website, the Mall Hall of Fame website, and listener comments, we have compiled a list of former Bangor Mall stores and eateries. How many of these do you remember?

16 Now Closed Turnpike Mall Stores

The Turnpike Mall in Augusta has been around for over a half century. In that time, dozens of stores and businesses have come and gone. We've put together a list of some of the more notable ones. Do you remember any of these?
This information was found on the Mall Hall of Fame and Zayre88 websites.