NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Despite the departure of anchor store, Dillard’s, and consistently near-empty parking lots, some are optimistic about the future of Bellevue Mall.

Video: Councilman's Hopes High For New Bellevue Mall

“I think it will actually help spur the redevelopment plan to move ahead faster,” said Bellevue’s Metro Council representative Charlie Tygard.

Tygard has been heavily involved with the new Bellevue Center owner, Foursquare Properties, and said the Dillard’s departure could help a major anchor like Cabela's move in more easily. He said he doesn't see another anchor leaving.

“My understanding is that Sears and Macy's are fully committed to the new plan, and the new plan will have more anchors than fewer,” he said.

Tygard said twice as many retailers want to be a part of the new plan than the space could ever allow.

That sentiment is also backed up by a statement released by Foursquare's president Monday.

The statement said that there is “enormous interest in the mall property from many exciting retailers and restaurants.”

A different look is also planned for the mall.

According to plans, part of the center will be torn down and rebuilt in the fashion of the H.G. Hills Center in Green Hills.

An adjacent field where the Titans used to practice could also be the sight of the new Cabela's.

“This is going to move very quickly assuming the Bellevue community, with its input, will like what they see,” Tygard said.

Developers are scheduled to meet with the public next week to update people on the plans and progress of the mall.

The meeting is set for Tuesday, Aug. 28, at 6:30 p.m. at Bellevue Middle School.