Developed by The Rouse Company, the mall opened on July 22, 1971, occupying the former site of the Franklin Airport.

[5] In 1993, Rouse significantly remodeled the mall and added a new wing anchored by the Lion Store.

Jacobson's went bankrupt and closed its location in early 2002, days before Westfield announced the takeover.

It was at this time that a new National Amusements multiplex theater and Dick's Sporting Goods were built, as well as a new Food Court and Borders books.

In 2008 Westfield held a press conference at Franklin Park to announce were shoe retailer DSW Warehouse, clothing store Old Navy, and an Ulta cosmetic salon.