From Eyesore to Anchor: Home Depot Opens at Former K-Mart Site in Mandarin

If you’ve lived in Mandarin for a while, you probably remember that old K-Mart on San Jose Boulevard — the one that sat empty for years, collecting weeds and fading memories.

Well, not anymore.

After years of vacancy, that long-forgotten corner has been completely transformed. The new Home Depot at 9600 San Jose Boulevard officially opened its doors today, bringing fresh energy, new jobs, and a major facelift to one of Mandarin’s busiest corridors.

A Big Win for Mandarin

The new store spans over 130,000 square feet and offers everything from an expanded garden center to a cutting-edge smart home section. Contractors and local pros will also find an upgraded Pro Desk with faster service and expanded inventory options.

But beyond the shelves and sawdust, this project represents something bigger — a comeback story for a site that’s been an eyesore for far too long. With new landscaping, improved walkways, and better traffic flow, the redevelopment has already made the area feel more vibrant and welcoming.

From K-Mart Memories to Home Depot Buzz

For many locals, this lot holds memories — Saturday morning errands, back-to-school shopping trips, and those blue light specials that defined a retail era. Now, the space is buzzing again — this time with power tools, home projects, and the unmistakable orange glow of Home Depot.

“Mandarin’s been waiting for this one for a long time,” said local realtor Neal Brown of iHeart Realty. “It’s exciting to see an old eyesore finally come back to life.”

A Fresh Start for San Jose Boulevard

This opening adds to a wave of redevelopment across Jacksonville’s southside, with older retail sites being reimagined into new commercial anchors. Home Depot’s investment in this property signals confidence in the Mandarin area and its continued growth.

So whether you’re a DIYer, a contractor, or just curious to see the transformation — swing by the new store and check it out for yourself.

What do you think — are you glad to see Home Depot take over the old K-Mart spot, or do you miss the nostalgia?

🏡 Written by Neal Brown | iHeart Realty

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