Changes are happening fast at the Pruneyard Shopping Center, which is undergoing a major renovation that began a few months ago and should see its first phase completed by year’s end.

Some new businesses swooped into the Pruneyard, others moved out and many are being remodeled inside, outside or both. When the first phase is over, the center will have improved walkways, lounging areas for communal gatherings and better vehicle traffic flow.

“It’s been exciting to see the physical progress of the renovation,” said Ellis Partners co-founder and managing principal Jim Ellis. “As a developer, it’s always exciting to see the progress on the ground.”

“We’re creating spaces for people to come and hang out,” Ellis added.

Following two years of community and city meetings to determine what residents and other stakeholders believed the Pruneyard needed, the Campbell City Council in October authorized Ellis Partners to proceed with the massive makeover. A ground-breaking took place in January to signal the first phase of the project.

The next three phases are expected to produce five new retail buildings, 100,000 square feet of office space and 680 additional parking spaces at the shopping center, located at East Campbell and South Bascom avenues.

For the first phase, the east parking lot along Main Street was closed until July 31, although there are still spaces available near Sports Basement and the covered parking garage.

To date, Lisa’s Tea Treasures has relocated and Camera 7 is being transformed into a luxury theater. Marshalls’ interior is getting a big remodel, and other businesses are getting exterior upgrades.

The DoubleTree by Hilton saw a fresh coat of paint and new decor in its lobby, as well as the launch of a new restaurant, PY Kitchen & Wine Garden. Trudys brides/special occasions store added a second floor and a grand staircase.

Meanwhile, Tin Pot Creamery, a new organic ice cream shop, had its grand opening on July 9.

“We’re also facilitating a renovation and expansion of the Trader Joe’s,” Ellis said, adding the expansion was sparked by community input.

“I’m really excited about Books Inc., Lulu’s, and Asian Box,” Ellis said, noting that those coming businesses have been successful at Town & Country Village in Palo Alto, which Ellis Partners also renovated.

Asian Box will take over the Sugar Butter Flour location.

New businesses such as Burger Lounge, Mendocino Farms, Peet’s Coffee & Tea and Blossom Nail Spa should be coming soon too during the first phase, Ellis said.

He said the first phase should wrap up by the time the holiday shopping season arrives.

Ellis said new businesses planning to move into the retail and office space yet to be built are currently negotiating leases. Once leases are secured, the next phase can commence, he noted.

“There are a lot of moving pieces,” Ellis said. “This is going to provide a real destination for visitors in the area and for the community.”