After nearly five years, Old Navy at the Shops of Grand Avenue is closing on May 5.

In 2004, which has three other area locations, was heralded as part of a rebirth of the Downtown mall. At the time, Linens 'N Things and TJ Maxx were also announced as significant, new tenants. Linens 'N Things has since filed bankruptcy and closed all of its locations. TJ Maxx remains open at the mall.

Much of Old Navy's merchandise, by day's end Tuesday, had already been well picked over. Store employees said that "staples" like socks and other basics will be shipped to other locations, but much of store's merchandise is priced to move quickly with clearance items priced at an additional 75 percent off.

Employees wouldn't comment on the closing, but many shoppers seemed to think that lack of a Wisconsin Avenue presence and Old Navy's somewhat hidden location at the mall hurt the Gap, Inc.-owned retailer.

Erica Anderson, Director of Marketing and Specialty Leasing at the Shops of Grand Avenue, said this in an e-mail, "The Shops of Grand Avenue regrets to report that Old Navy has decided to terminate their tenancy. We have enjoyed their store here, however we need to address the fact that ultimately, this concept was not the answer for The Shops of Grand Avenue. We look to the future with enthusiasm and hope for our beautiful downtown shopping center with unique prospective retailers that will drive consumers downtown. Even during this dreary economic climate, we are in talks with retailers that will truly enhance the experience of The Shops of Grand Avenue and downtown Milwaukee."