Schimenti Construction partnered with Dick’s Sporting Goods to bring another House of Sport concept to life at Freehold Raceway Mall, transforming a former two-story Lord & Taylor store into a 130,000 SF, experience-focused retail destination. This project was Schimenti’s first full-format House of Sport with the client and represented a significant interior and exterior redevelopment at one of New Jersey’s top regional malls.
The 72-week project began with extensive demolition, followed by new structural steel and foundation work to support signature features, including a two-story clerestory, a climbing wall, feature staircases, an elevator, and multiple new entrances. A standout element of the redevelopment was the addition of an outdoor track and field, further integrating sport and retail in one environment. Interior upgrades included the complete replacement of MEP systems, highlighted by a new 2500-amp electrical service and 30 rooftop RTUs, while the redesigned exterior featured curtainwall systems, Exterior Insulation and Finishing Systems (EIFS), Aluminium Composite Material (ACM) panels, thin brick, and new paint.
Despite encountering schedule-impacting challenges, including utility conflicts during major excavations, delays in electrical service, and unexpected replacement of large portions of the existing concrete slab and deck, Schimenti maintained the project timeline. Through strategic planning, creative scheduling, and strong buy-in from trade partners, all key milestones were met, including the store team access date, soft opening, and grand opening.
Close collaboration with the local building department and fire marshal ensured smooth inspections and timely approvals. Daily communication between Schimenti’s field and project management teams and Dick’s Sporting Goods’ internal stakeholders (including national vendors, architects, and construction directors) enabled a transparent, collaborative environment. They helped bring this large-scale retail concept to completion without compromise. The result is a vibrant community destination that redefines how customers engage with sports retail.
