Wards Corner to get $1 million makeover

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - Another big change is coming to Wards Corner in Norfolk.

The Midtown Shopping Center on East Little Creek Road is about to get a $1 million makeover.

The city released a rendering Friday, showing what is expected to look like in six months, with brand new shops and restaurants.

The owner, Joan Dalis, said three national retailers are already on board, but she would not reveal which ones.

Friday's announcement was an emotional day for her because her late husband built the shopping center in 1947. Despite that, she said she thinks he would be happy to see its revitalization.

Dalis will pay for the improvements, but she will also get some tax incentives.

The city has worked for years to redevelop the area.

The shopping center across the street is going to be torn down and rebuilt. A Harris Teeter grocery store will anchor that center.

Click here to see a slideshow of what the Midtown Shopping Center looked like back when it was referred to as the "Times Square of the South."