News 12 got an exclusive look at the construction of the Green Acres Mall renovation project in Valley Stream.

It is one of Long Island's largest and oldest malls.

Once completed, the Green Acres Mall will be home to stores not traditionally associated with retail shopping centers.

Crews broke ground two weeks ago on a $100 million renovation.

Macerich, which owns Green Acres, says it is adding more entrances, parking and lots of restaurants.

It's what they are calling the dining district of the South Shore.

"Cheesecake Factory, Shake Shack, Panda Express, Tony's Tacos a great local operator," said Richard Madramuthu, with Macerich.

There are currently empty storefronts in parts of the mall, but as early as this fall, new restaurants and shops will be open there.

In 2026, a 37,000-square-foot children's entertainment center is scheduled to open there.

"They'll have laser tag, virtual reality, climbing structures, trampolines," Madramuthu said.

Crime is also a focus of the renovation. As News 12 has reported, numerous crimes have happened here over the years, some of them violent.

"Part of our redevelopment is doubling down on our security here and just making it a safe environment," Madramuthu said.

Construction is expected to finish by summer 2027, with the completion of a new ShopRite grocery store.