Construction crews began erecting walls this week on the Dick's Sporting Goods store at San Jacinto Marketplace, marking a visible milestone in the long-awaited redevelopment of the former San Jacinto Mall site.
Senior Construction Manager Mark Lane said walls for the Dick's Sporting Goods building, referred to as 3C, started going vertical immediately, with work continuing through the following week. Lane and Construction Manager Kevin Brown were on site to oversee the progress and provide an update.“Things are looking up at San Jacinto Marketplace in Baytown,” Lane said. “We know this patient community has been watching the progress with anticipation, and we are thrilled they can now see the project go vertical. With walls for several of the national anchors going vertical this week and next, we’re happy to announce that many stores plan to be open in time for Christmas.”
The project, developed by Fidelis, has completed substantial site preparation, including approximately 1.4 million square feet of concrete paving and more than 10 miles of underground utilities, including water and sanitary lines. Two public roads, Lone Star and Independence Boulevard, are nearly finished.
Dick's Sporting Goods is scheduled for delivery in mid-September, with an anticipated opening in November. Anchor tenants — including HomeGoods, Burlington, Havertys, Barnes & Noble, Ross, Five Below and others — will see panel erection begin in early March, with phased deliveries to follow. The goal is for these stores to open before Christmas, allowing 30 to 45 days for fixture installation and merchandising after building turnover.
Sam's Club, constructing its own building, is working on foundation and perimeter work. Pluckers has a signed lease, with site delivery expected around April 15 for utilities and related work.
The Pelican Green area — an outdoor gathering space with specialty restaurants, shops, water fountains, kids' zones, shade structures and entertainment — is in permitting, with construction likely starting in April or May. Completion is projected for the second quarter of 2027. Lane compared it to Houston's CityCentre for its outdoor, walkable vibe.
Monument signage installation is expected to begin in May, with large signs along the I-10 feeder and Garth Road completed by August or September.
The Garth Road widening project, coordinated with the city, is progressing, with utilities and work on the development's side anticipated to wrap up by October or November.
The development has overcome years of challenges, including property acquisitions, anchor negotiations, retailer holdouts, bankruptcies and COVID-19 impacts. Lane noted the extensive infrastructure groundwork required before visible vertical construction.
Baytown residents have long awaited a local retail and entertainment destination to reduce out-of-town shopping trips, especially during holidays.
The project remains on schedule, weather permitting, with a focus on delivering major retail this year. The overall San Jacinto Marketplace is expected to open in phases by late 2026, featuring a mix of national anchors, restaurants and community spaces.
