Construction continues on a new Burlington Coat Factory and a relocated Bed Bath & Beyond at the Vancouver Plaza, with both stores targeted for completion before the holiday shopping season begins.
In an unrelated change at the mall, Boppin’ Bo’s Malt Shop & Grill will shut its doors at Vancouver Plaza at the close of business Sunday, said L.J. Bowman, the restaurant’s general manager and the son of its owners, Larry and Betty Bowman.
The elder Bowmans were not available for comment. L.J. Bowman said the restaurant was closing because of a near-doubling of rent, to almost $11,000 per month. He said his parents, both in their mid-60s, were suffering from “sticker shock” and were uncertain what to do next, although they intend to continue operating food booths at the Clark County fairgrounds. He said 17 employees would lose their jobs.
Joe Bell, spokesman for Cafaro Co. of Youngstown, Ohio, the mall’s owner, said Betty Bowman had informed the mall owners that the couple wanted to close the restaurant before the two parties had even discussed rental rates. “This had nothing to do with anyone talking about rent,” he said.
