By a 6-2 vote, Phoenix City Council has passed the last required vote for Metrocenter to enter into redevelopment.
Almost 50 years ago Metrocenter Mall opened its doors, and for many Phoenicians served as the backdrop for their formative years. Housing five department stores, a food court and an indoor ice rink during the winter months, Metrocenter Mall was a crown jewel west of the Mississippi River. Metrocenter even made its debut on the silver screen in movies such as “Take Me Home Tonight” (2011) and cult classics like “Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure” (1989).
“I have fond memories of Metrocenter Mall,” said Councilwoman Ann O’Brien. “One of my first jobs was at Park Lane Hosiery in the mall and I remember the many nights my friends and I spent cruising around the mall. Although those times are gone, I’m incredibly excited for what’s to come for the entire Metro region.”
As the decades passed, Metrocenter fell into disrepair, and like all megamalls across the country, stores started to close. During the last part of 2021, the City announced the development plans and conceptual designs for the future of Metrocenter. Development partners, Concord Wilshire Capital, TLG Investment Partners, and Hines Development, will bring a mixed-use community over three phases. The new development will feature multi-family housing, restaurant space, retail space with a main street vibe, and an amphitheater park opened to the public and pets.
“In addition to the redevelopment of Metrocenter itself, we’re moving swiftly toward the day when light rail will stop right at the mall’s doorstep,” said Mayor Kate Gallego. “With excellent housing, transit, business and retail options all in one place, Metrocenter will once again be a vibrant hub for the northwestern part of our city.”
“I want to thank Councilwoman O’Brien and Community and Economic Development Director Chris Mackay for ensuring this project crossed the finish line,” said former Councilwoman Thelda Williams. “I’m excited to have Metrocenter become a crown jewel of Phoenix once again.”
Today’s vote marks yet another mall redevelopment which Phoenix has become nationally recognized for – joining Paradise Valley Mall and Park Central.
“This redevelopment is just the first of so much more to come to the Metro region,” said O’Brien. “With this investment, we’ll be able to attract more partners interested in working with community members to completely revitalize the Metro District – making it cleaner and safer for everyone.”
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