The History and Future of Metrocenter: From Iconic Mall to The Metropolitan -

Metrocenter Mall, once a symbol of retail innovation in Phoenix, is undergoing a historic transformation. After serving as a bustling hub for nearly five decades, the iconic mall is being redeveloped into The Metropolitan, a vibrant multi-use urban village. This $850 million project led by Concord Wilshire Capital, Diversified Partners, and the City of Phoenix marks the next chapter for the Metrocenter corridor, blending history with a vision for sustainable growth and connectivity.

Metrocenter Mall: A Retail Revolution in 1973

When Metrocenter Mall opened in 1973, it was one of the largest malls in the United States, boasting 80 acres of space. It revolutionized Phoenix’s retail landscape, offering:

Major Department Stores: Anchored by iconic names like Sears, JCPenney, and Macy’s.
Unique Attractions: An ice-skating rink, movie theater, and arcade drew families from across the Valley.
Diverse Shopping: A wide variety of stores catered to the needs of Phoenix residents and visitors alike.

The mall quickly became a community hub, creating countless memories for generations. Learn more about the history of American malls at Smithsonian Magazine.

The Decline and Closure of Metrocenter

As retail trends shifted and online shopping gained dominance, traditional malls like Metrocenter faced challenges. Foot traffic declined, and many stores shuttered their doors. Despite efforts to revitalize the space, Metrocenter Mall closed in 2020, marking the end of an era.

For insights into the decline of malls nationwide, visit The Atlantic.

The Vision for The Metropolitan

The redevelopment of Metrocenter into The Metropolitan aims to transform the area into a vibrant urban village. The plan includes:

Residential Spaces: Townhomes and apartments catering to diverse demographics.
Retail and Dining: A reimagined shopping and dining experience at “The Loop.”
Green Spaces: Parks and bike paths for community engagement and recreation.
Transit Integration: Proximity to the new Valley Metro Thelda Williams Transit Center.

For more on mixed-use urban developments, explore the Urban Land Institute.

Leadership Behind the Transformation

The project is spearheaded by:

Concord Wilshire Capital: Known for large-scale developments that blend innovation with sustainability.
Diversified Partners: Experts in creating successful commercial and retail spaces in the western U.S.
City of Phoenix: Ensuring alignment with goals for sustainable growth and transportation.

Learn more about Concord Wilshire’s work at Concord Wilshire Capital and Diversified Partners at Diversified Partners.

Sustainability and Connectivity at the Core

A key feature of The Metropolitan is its integration with the Valley Metro Light Rail at the Thelda Williams Transit Center. This connectivity ensures:

Reduced reliance on cars, promoting sustainable transportation.
Easy access for residents and visitors to Phoenix’s broader transit network.

For information on sustainable urban transit, visit Valley Metro.

Community and Economic Impact

The redevelopment of Metrocenter is expected to:

Boost the Local Economy: The addition of retail and dining options will create jobs and attract visitors.
Enhance Quality of Life: Green spaces and bike paths will foster a sense of community.
Meet Evolving Needs: The project reflects modern urban living trends, blending residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Christine Mackay, Phoenix’s Community and Economic Development Director, stated:
“This project reflects the evolving needs of our community and lays a foundation for future growth.”

For resources on economic development, visit the Arizona Commerce Authority.

The Legacy of Metrocenter Mall

Even as Metrocenter Mall transitions into The Metropolitan, its legacy remains significant. It was not just a mall; it was a cultural touchstone that shaped Phoenix’s identity. From family outings to memorable events, Metrocenter holds a special place in the hearts of many residents.

Explore the history of malls in America at History.com.

The Demolition Ceremony: Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future

The recent demolition ceremony marked the symbolic end of Metrocenter Mall and the beginning of The Metropolitan. Attendees witnessed the unveiling of the new name, branding, and renderings, offering a glimpse into the area’s bright future.

For updates on the redevelopment process, visit City of Phoenix Economic Development.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Metrocenter

The transformation of Metrocenter into The Metropolitan is more than a redevelopment project—it’s a reflection of Phoenix’s growth, resilience, and vision for the future. With its blend of residential spaces, retail opportunities, green initiatives, and transit integration, The Metropolitan will serve as a model for sustainable urban development.

For further information and updates, explore the following resources:

As Phoenix embraces the future, the legacy of Metrocenter will continue to inspire the next generation of urban innovation.