SOUTHGATE (WWJ) – The demolition of a long standing but vacant store front will bring about a major facelift for the Southgate Shopping Center.

Mayor Joe Kuspa, during his State of the City address this past week, says the long-vacant Montgomery Ward building at Trenton and Eureka roads will finally be torn down.

“In the spring of 2012, this year, the Ward’s building will be torn down,” said Kuspa. “The property will then be gifted to the city of Southgate for the development of a new multi-purpose flexible public space.”

While the shopping center has seen Old Country Buffet, Service Merchandise, and Farmer Jack leave over the past 15 years, newer tenants include Planet Fitness and Ukazoo Books and a Wal-Mart recently opened nearby.