Sunrise Mall retailer posts ‘not closing’ sign

By Sara Beth Williams–
Bucking the trend of Sunrise Mall closures, at least one retailer says it’s here to stay, for now.

During a Weekend Blender comic-con event that took place March 15 and 16, a sign was observed posted in front of California Basics, a clothing retailer inside Sunrise Mall, stating, “We Are Not Closing.”

The declaration comes on the heels of two major retail chains within Sunrise Mall announcing closures.

An employee from California Basics said Friday that the store wants to let people know that even though Macy’s is closing, the mall itself and their store are not planning to close.

Several other clothing, shoe, and accessory stores still remain open, including Lids, Famous Footwear, Image, M&M Couture, Torrid, and Tops Men’s Fashion. The mall also has several jewelry stores, one hair salon, and a community theater.

The number of vacant storefronts still far exceeds the number of businesses open and operational, and half the mall has been closed off, blocked by a black gate. Pro Image Sports and Lin Den Massage appear to have closed last year after several visits by Sentinel staff, but the stores are still listed on the mall’s online store directory. Management from Sunrise Mall did not respond to comments regarding the closure of the aforementioned stores.

The Citrus Heights City Council approved a Sunrise Tomorrow Specific Plan in 2021, which envisions turning the mall property into a “21st-Century Main Street” with walkable pathways, open green space, mixed housing and office space, and shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Most recently, real estate mogul Ethan Conrad with Ethan Conrad Properties has proposed another redevelopment plan, which he calls “Sunrise Tomorrow Evolution.” The redevelopment plan, according to Conrad, would save the mall from dying and bring a Home Depot, In-N-Out, and several other fast food restaurants to the mall property.

The plan has caused tension and sparked debate among many residents in the city. Other residents who have spoken during City Council meetings have cautioned against dragging out the timeline of the development of Sunrise Mall.

California Basics is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and 12-6 p.m. on Sundays.