First phase of The Oaks mall outdoor expansion to open

The Oaks mall on Hillcrest Drive in Thousand Oaks will open the first phase of the new two-level, 103,000-square-foot open-air expansion on Oct. 17.

Ten new stores and casual food restaurants will join the stores and food options in the outdoor venue, including Dockers San Francisco, Michelle D, PaperSource, Peet's Coffee and Tea, Paciugo Gelato, Quicksilver Youth and The Walking Company.

The total number of stores and restaurants opening this fall is 23.

Retailers are expected to open in two phases this fall, followed by additional openings in 2009.

October: Active Ride Shop, Aerie by American Eagle, Aeropostale, American Eagle Outfitters, Beachworks, Lids, PacSun, Quicksilver Youth, Select Comfort, The Walking Company, Wetzel's Pretzels and Zumiez.

November: Champs, Dockers San Francisco, Leonidas Chocolates, Levi's, Michelle D, Mojo Yogurt, Paciugo Gelato, Paper Source, Peet's Coffee and Tea and T-Mobile. Reflections is expected to open by the holiday season.

The lower level of the expansion will offer a selection of fashion and accessory stores for juniors and young adults, as well as fast-casual dining, a fire pit and soft seating areas.

The upper level will provide women's lifestyle and fashion retailers. The twolevel expansion features a curved wroughtiron staircase.

Construction on the multiphase expansion and redevelopment project began in spring 2007.

The project's design is a contemporary interpretation of the classic Southern California Spanish-revival style. For more information, visit www.ShopTheOaksMall.com.