The Oak Park Mall will soon become the home of three new stores, with a fourth store likely by October.

Shan Kehret, marketing coordinator for the mall, said the emphasis for her and owner Martin Graff has been to build the mall up to what it once was. Graff admits the mall has been hit by the economy, but is looking to utilize the mall’s location, just outside of Interstate 90 and close to local retail outlets, to create a destination for Austin residents and visitors.

Having new stores opening is a sign they’re moving in the right direction, Kehret said.

Weight Watchers, located next to Cinemagic Theatre, opened within the last month. Acclaim Studio of Dance also opened a studio, located across from the mall office. Two Bears Trading Post, currently located on Main Street, is slated to open the doors of its new mall location Sept. 1.

With plans in place to include yet another store by Oct. 1, which Graff was not able to name, Graff said any rumors surrounding the closure of the mall just don’t make sense.

“The mall has no plans on going anywhere,” Graff said.

In addition to new store, Graff is planning events for the mall, including the Home Expo, set for Saturday, Sept. 18. The second annual event is expected to draw over 40 home-based businesses, along with entertainment and food. Music will be provided by Mischief and Mayhem, a self described dueling pianos group.