As walls came down at Metrocenter Mall on November 18, a new vision was unleashed for the 80-acre property. The demolition marks the start of an $850 million redevelopment, transforming the site into a vibrant multi-use, self-contained, transit-oriented community encompassing the city’s new Metro Light Rail station, which will serve as one of the major focal points of the development. Spearheaded by Concord Wilshire Capital and TLG Investment Partners, in partnership with Diversified Partners and Hines, the redevelopment promises to redefine the future of the Metro District and serve as a case study for vacant malls across the country.
“The Metropolitan is an elegant name that acknowledges the Legacy of Metrocenter while demonstrating that this new development is building something unique and elevated yet accessible to all,” said Councilwoman Ann O’Brien.
When Metrocenter opened in 1973, the 80-acre property was Arizona’s first indoor, air-conditioned mall. The Mall closed in 2020 to make way for redevelopment. The developer will transform the property into a thriving mixed-use community that continues to serve as a vital hub for the Phoenix area, connected by the newly completed Valley Metro Thelda Williams Transit Center, with Valley Metro Light Rail service. The Metropolitan will blend retail, dining, residential and recreational spaces to meet the needs of a modern city.
“This project represents the next phase of growth for our city,” said Christine Mackay, Phoenix’s community and economic development director. “We are not just breaking ground — we are laying a foundation that reflects the evolving needs of our community, as we reflect on the past, and I’m excited for the developments to come.”
Images by RSP Architects, Courtesy of Concord Wilshire
