Change is coming.

More housing. More options for care for our elderly family and neighbors. More jobs and more retail.

We understand that the exact details for how developers FamVest use the Lycoming Mall property are likely to change.

“Our goal is to provide an environment that is attractive to potential tenants; however, the mix of potential tenants remains fluid. That said, we are continuing discussions with potential commercial and hospitality prospects, and the plans for residential housing and recreational space are being developed,” Jon M. Johanshahi, senior vice president of acquisitions and development for FamVest, told the Sun-Gazette earlier this month.

And we understand that as the specific details come to light, many in our communities will feel a touch of sadness. The Lycoming Mall was a fixture in eastern Lycoming County. For many it was the site of their first job or their first date or their first time Christmas shopping for new children.

As the mall continues to change, many will be nostalgic for those memories. As reported in Wednesday’s edition of the Sun-Gazette, a change in the ownership of Bush House Estate, which will no longer be operated by the Bush family — a family that has owned the venue for decades — reminds us of that.

But we’re still excited and optimistic about the options on the table. The mall has unfortunately been in decline for many years and this development will revitalize the site and the communities around it.

It will likely create more housing. It will certainly create more jobs. Lycoming County needs both.

And so we appreciate the initiative and leadership by FamVest’s executives and staff. Change can be difficult — but it also can be necessary and a reason for all of us to share in excitement for a better, more viable future.