The closure is the latest in a series of setbacks for the mall as it moves toward redevelopment<\/p>\n
The Crayola Experience at The Shops at Willow Bend in Plano was unexpectedly closed this week after a lockout notice appeared on the doors.<\/p>\n
According to the Dallas Morning News<\/a>, the landlord, Centennial, changed the locks on Feb. 7 due to delinquent rent. The notice states that access could be restored if the full overdue balance is paid. Crayola\u2019s website also lists the Plano location as \u201ctemporarily closed.\u201d<\/p>\n Families Left Without Answers<\/p>\n The sudden closure sparked confusion and frustration among customers, particularly families who had events scheduled at the venue. On Crayola\u2019s Facebook page<\/a>, one parent shared that her child\u2019s birthday party was scheduled for Feb. 8, but the family arrived to find the venue closed, saying there had been no advance notice by phone or email before guests showed up.<\/p>\n Other commenters raised concerns about annual passes that had already been purchased, asking how refunds or credits would be handled if the closure extends.<\/p>\n As of now, Crayola has not released additional details about the lockout or how affected customers will be accommodated.<\/p>\n Another Setback For Willow Bend<\/p>\n The closure adds to a growing list of challenges<\/a> facing Willow Bend. Several major anchors have exited or announced plans to leave the mall. Dillard\u2019s has already closed, Macy\u2019s announced its departure in 2024, and Neiman Marcus is set to follow<\/a>.<\/p>\n Those departures come as redevelopment plans for the 107-acre property continue to evolve. Earlier concepts for The Bend<\/a> redevelopment envisioned keeping core anchors in place, but newer iterations emphasize walkability, nearly 1,000 apartments and flexibility for future large-scale uses.<\/p>\n Dallas Stars Speculation Looms<\/p>\n