In the heart of the Mahoning Valley stands one of Trumbull County’s success stories, the Eastwood Mall Complex. For nearly six decades, it has been more than a shopping destination; it has been a gathering place, a symbol of pride, and a testament of one family’s vision for community and commerce.
In the early 1960s, William M. Cafaro and his brother, John, were already seasoned developers in the shopping industry. Few people realize that, before this project, the Cafaro Company and Edward DeBartolo’s firm had originally partnered to co-develop the Southern Park Mall in Boardman, marking a continuing collaboration between two developers. In 1964, a Warren-based real estate broker approached the Cafaro’s with an idea, to transform the former Eastwood Golf Course into a shopping center along the busy Route 422 corridor connecting Warren and Youngstown. Recognizing its potential, Cafaro’s set out to build what would become one of the most successful malls in the nation.
The Eastwood Mall was more than a collection of stores. It was seen as a “city unto itself,” where people could shop, dine, and relax all under one roof. Drawing from his early experience in the restaurant business, William Cafaro helped launch Cherry’s Top of the Mall, a prime dinner spot that became a hallmark of the mall’s early years. The mall’s first anchor store, Sears, even opened its doors before the official grand opening, setting the stage for decades of growth and community connection.
Over the years, the Eastwood Mall has evolved to meet the changing needs of its visitors, adding outparcel developments such as Great East Plaza, Howland Commons, Boulevard Centre, McKinley Centre and North Commons. Today, it is home to a diverse mix of retailers, restaurants, hotels, entertainment venues, and even training schools. Beyond commerce, it has grown into an economic engine for Trumbull County, contributing millions annually in taxes and providing thousands of local jobs. With the addition of the Eastwood Event Centre, it has become a hub for social gatherings, educational conferences, fundraisers, and business development.
“My father would be very proud to see how Eastwood has continued to grow” said Anthony Cafaro, Sr., son of William M. Cafaro. “His grandsons have continued to innovate and add new businesses to the mall complex. It really does serve this community in so many ways.”
Additionally, over the past 50 years, the Cafaro family has quietly extended its reach far beyond the Eastwood Mall, giving tens of millions of dollars to charity, privately and through its Cafaro Foundation, which was established in 1996 by William M. Cafaro in memory of his wife, Alyce. Their philanthropic efforts have supported churches, schools, hospitals, and countless charitable causes, often done anonymously. This enduring generosity continues to leave a profound and lasting impact on the communities they serve.
Tradition has always been at the heart of the Eastwood Mall experience. Generations of families have celebrated the arrival of Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny, with special sensory-friendly events designed for children with autism and other sensory needs. The annual November Rain, which is slated for November 1 is a celebration that has also become a beloved tradition, filled with family fun, live music, and fireworks lighting up the sky all year round.
Today, the Cafaro family oversees a growing portfolio of more than 50 properties across the country, yet their mission remains as personal and heartfelt as it was at the beginning. They continue to honor the philosophy set by their founders, to build, nurture, and care for each property with the community in mind. As they celebrate more than 75 years in business, including milestones like the 50th anniversary of Millcreek Mall in Erie (being celebrated in November), their dedication to growth, family values, and community connection remains stronger than ever.
“One major difference between the Cafaro organization and other real estate developers is the fact that we operate as a family-run business,” said Joe Bell, Director of Corporate Communications. “We do not answer to investors. We do not answer to venture capital firms. The Cafaro family takes pride in creating valuable properties for the long-haul.”
Looking ahead, the future of Eastwood Mall Complex will emphasize hospitality, service, and even medical services and residential opportunities. Yet one thing will never change — the family’s deep gratitude for the people who make the mall thrive. As Joe Bell proudly shares, “The people who walk through our doors aren’t just customers, they’re our neighbors, our friends, and, in many ways, our family.”
Pictures Courtesy of the Cafaro Company
