Old Nordstrom seeing new life?

Anchorage might finally be doing something with that giant empty Nordstrom building downtown.

The old Nordstrom at 6th and D has sat vacant since 2019, leaving a massive hole in the middle of downtown. For years, it has just been dark windows and locked doors.

Now the Anchorage Assembly is considering a plan to transfer the property to the Anchorage Community Development Authority. If approved, ACDA would take the lead on designing a redevelopment plan and finding a private developer.

The proposal also includes potential incentives like tax breaks or lease discounts to make a project work. Developers are already eager with ideas including housing and specialty retail stores.

A public hearing is set for March 24, giving downtown residents and business owners a chance to weigh in.

Whether or not this will be enough to revitalize downtown Anchorage, is still up for debate.