Lincoln Mall in Matteson to close after holidays

MATTESON, Ill. (WLS) -- Lincoln Mall in south suburban Matteson will close after the holiday shopping season.

Judge Thomas Condon ordered the deteriorating structure, located on Lincoln Highway just east of I-57, to close permanently on Jan. 7, 2015. He said the mall's owner, Michael Kohan, has failed to keep the complex up to "basic operating standards," according to a release.

The Carson Pirie Scott store will remain open and be permanently separated from the rest of the mall. The Village of Matteson said it will attempt to find potential retail spaces where other stores can relocate, but some businesses say to expect layoffs.

"It's a sad day," Darwin Sanders, Somewear Men's Apparel, said.

Condon ordered Kohan to relinquish mall operations independent receiver in August 2013 citing the building's condition, which he deemed a danger to the public. According to the Matteson village administrator Brian Mitchell, the repairs and updates were simply too costly.

The mall went into a receivership last year and has been operating in a deficit. The receiver recommended the judge order the mall to close.

Lincoln Mall opened in 1973 with more than 100 stores.

"It's really sad that this is happening. I spent lots of time in this mall growing up," Donia Ricci said.