The site plan of The 440 Plaza on Middlesex Road in Tyngsborough. Courtesy photo/Sam Park & Co.

TYNGSBOROUGH, Mass. – For the next three years, developer Sam Park will be breathing life back into the plaza at 440 Middlesex Rd.

Purchased by Park in 2017, the parcel’s redevelopment was halted by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, he has since resumed a series of improvements on three existing buildings, which will become a bustling retail plaza known as The 440.

During a recent site visit, Park assured town officials that the new complex will not be disruptive to the neighboring businesses.

“We don’t want to do anything that isn’t totally in keeping with the town,” he said. “I don’t want to be the guy who stole everyone else’s business.”

At more than 178,500 square feet, the property is an extension of the Daniel Webster Highway Market, which has established itself as one of the top retail markets in New England.

Park said the project will be divided into three phases.

The first phase, which is currently underway, will include sidewalk improvements and the parking lot being repaved. Sewer and utility extensions will also be installed.

The second phase will focus on the building located between Tavern in the Square and the future site of Player One Entertainment and will house numerous tenants.

The final phase will focus on the property’s main entrance. This will include crosswalks, pedestrian connectors, a new pylon sign and landscaping.

The plaza is currently occupied by the AMC Theatre, Tavern in the Square and the Dollar Tree. Park said The 440 will feature LED lighting, an abundance of greenspace, outdoor restaurant seating and a more pedestrian-friendly experience for patrons. He also hopes to draw from the existing customer base at the Pheasant Lane Mall.

“We’re trying to create spaces that are very inviting,” said Park, adding that retail redevelopment will boom during the next decade. “When you look at retail centers now, it’s all about creating Instagram moments.”

Select Board Chairman Eric Eldridge said Park has been “very transparent” and looks forward to seeing The 440 come to fruition.

“It’s a great fit for our town,” he said, adding that the plaza will be similar to The Point in Littleton. “I certainly see that vision.”

Town Manager Matthew Hanson said he is also excited to see the plaza come back to life.

“The town is fortunate to have Sam Park and his team redeveloping The 440 plaza,” he said. “Sam’s model of attracting a blend of service and amenity tenants will ensure that the plaza continues to remain a destination for years to come. The new site layout creates several beautiful, walkable, spaces for patrons to enjoy while they shop and dine at the plaza.”

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