Shoppes at Forest Hills redevelopment now complete

Trinity Partners says the redevelopment and leasing of Shoppes at Forest Hills is complete.

A neighborhood retail center located at 2710 Gervais St. in Columbia, the shopping center underwent a transformation of both the building and surrounding property, according to the agency, in an effort to reposition the center as a premier retail destination serving the Forest Hills, Forest Acres, downtown Columbia and southeast Columbia communities.

The revitalized center is now home to three tenants: Salons by JC Forest Hills, Melrose Market, and Jetset Pilates Forest Acres. Together, these new tenants occupy approximately 15,430 square feet and bring a mix of wellness, fitness and dining experiences to the area, according to a news release.

The amount of the investment was not disclosed.

“From the moment I began leasing this center, I felt a personal responsibility to get the tenant mix right because I live just behind the property,” William Mills, senior brokerage associate with Trinity Partners, said in the release. “This was more than another leasing assignment; it was a chance to help shape one of Columbia’s most recognizable neighborhood shopping centers. Hearing firsthand what the local residents wanted made the process even more meaningful, and I’m proud that Melrose Market, Jetset Pilates, and Salons by JC came together to create the kind of destination the community was looking for.”

The redevelopment included extensive upgrades to the building and parking areas. The transformation has elevated the center’s appearance, functionality, and overall appeal while maintaining its connection to the surrounding community, according to Trinity Partners.

“We are both USC graduates and have been familiar with this property since our college days,” said Walker Barber, owner of the property. “Together we felt it deserved a restoration — reimagining a space worthy of the community it sits in. We are excited two of the three businesses are now open, with JETSET Pilates arriving this winter. We’re proud of the new life we’ve brought back to this property and the positive impact it will make on the community.”

The tenants selected Shoppes at Forest Hills because of its central location and accessibility between southeast Columbia, Forest Acres and the Central Business District, as well as its proximity to some of the city’s most established residential neighborhoods, according to the release.

“As a business owner, city councilman and neighbor, I couldn’t be more proud and personally thrilled to have the recently renovated property on Gervais Street with Melrose Market and Salons by JC headlining the new development,” said Columbia City Councilman Peter Brown. “This is not only a testament to the amazing vibe in Columbia but a great project that will enhance our neighborhood and quality of life. Buckle up Columbia and enjoy the ride.”

Salons by JC Forest Hills (6,925 square feet) and Melrose Market (5,000 square feet) are now open. Jetset Pilates Forest Acres (3,505 square feet) is expected to open soon.

“What drew us to this location was its unique combination of visibility and neighborhood connection,” Chad Elsey, Melrose Market owner and managing partner, said in the release. “Situated along one of Columbia’s most traveled corridors, it’s also surrounded by some of the city’s most established and vibrant neighborhoods. The building has been a familiar part of the community for decades, and we were excited by the opportunity to bring new life to a space that so many people already know and recognize. We’ve been thrilled by the response from both neighbors and visitors, and we can’t imagine a better home for Melrose Market.”

William Mills of Trinity Partners represented the landlord in leasing  the property.