Major Retailers Confirmed at Black Gold Plaza Opening May 2026

Construction crews are advancing work at Black Gold Plaza in Hazard, bringing a cluster of national retailers closer to a projected May 2026 opening. The plaza’s future storefronts, including TJ Maxx, Hobby Lobby, Dollar Tree and Five Below, are scheduled to begin operations in May of 2026, marking one of the most significant retail investments in Perry County in recent years.

Local economic development officials say the project is already influencing additional private investment in the vicinity. Zach Lawrence, executive director at Perry County’s Economic Development Office, described the plaza as a quality of life and economic anchor for the region. “You got to have quality of life peace and you got to have places to shop and spend your money here locally too. So it kind of ties in with everything. We’re working on every bit of that,” Lawrence said.

Lawrence also reported that other private projects have been prompted by the plaza announcement. “Since the announcement up here at Black Gold Plaza, we’ve had a few other private developments that have that have started construction or started looking seriously here at the area,” he said. One visible example is a new GoTime gas station under construction off the Hazard Bypass, which is expected to begin fueling the community by the end of next year.

For Perry County residents, the arrival of multiple national chains within the same shopping complex could reduce trips to neighboring counties for common purchases and specialty items. Retail openings typically generate both construction period employment and longer term retail jobs, while increased storefront activity boosts local sales tax receipts and can support complementary services such as restaurants and small vendors.

Beyond immediate economic effects, the plaza contributes to a broader strategy by county officials to strengthen local spending capture and diversify the retail base. Economic development leaders have emphasized that providing more shopping choices is part of a wider push to improve community amenities and retain consumer dollars within the county.

WYMT Mountain News has documented progress on the site with photos and video, and published reporting that includes statements from Lawrence and other county economic development representatives. As work continues, officials expect to announce additional tenants and project milestones in the coming months, and residents can follow local coverage for updates on construction timelines and employment opportunities tied to the plaza and surrounding developments.