The Future of Metrocenter Mall: What’s Coming to Phoenix’s New Urban Village

On November 18, 2024, the long-anticipated demolition of Metrocenter Mall began, marking the end of an era and the start of an exciting new chapter for Phoenix. In its place, a transformative, transit-oriented urban village named The Metropolitan is set to rise, bringing with it modern housing, vibrant retail spaces, and community-centered amenities designed to breathe new life into the area.

The development will be anchored by its connection to the Thelda Williams Transit Center, a light rail stop that links North Phoenix to Downtown Phoenix and the East Valley, making it a key hub for both residents and visitors. With plans for more than 1,000 townhomes—both for rent and for purchase—and a diverse mix of retail and entertainment options, The Metropolitan promises to become a vibrant community destination.

A Vision for Inclusive Urban Living

For many Phoenix residents, Metrocenter Mall holds nostalgic memories as a central gathering place throughout their childhood and teenage years. But as the city grows and evolves, so must its spaces. City of Phoenix Councilwoman Ann O’Brien shared the importance of ensuring that this redevelopment serves the broader community.

“It was so important to me that this community be a place where our young adults could get their starter home, where our local schoolteachers and nurses could live in the community they serve, and where our parents whose chicks have flown the coop may downsize,” O’Brien said. “While I’ll always remember Metrocenter Mall as a foundation of my childhood and teen years, it is time to make this area the crown jewel it once was.”

This vision of inclusivity and community is at the heart of The Metropolitan, which is designed to offer affordable housing options alongside luxury amenities, ensuring that people from all walks of life can find a place to call home in North Phoenix.

Modern Design with a Nod to the Past

While The Metropolitan will be a thoroughly modern development, it will pay homage to Metrocenter Mall’s mid-century modern aesthetics. According to Jason Ploszaj, principal at RSP Architects, the design will “lean forward with a softness and additional articulation and contrast,” blending nostalgia with contemporary architecture.

The development will feature three distinct residential communities:

• Terra Court: An entry-level townhome community offering affordable housing for first-time buyers and young professionals.
• Luna Villas: Mid-range homes featuring larger units and shaded patios designed for families and those seeking more space.
• Brava Garden: The premium offering with larger floor plans, high-end finishes, and an expanded amenity package for luxury living.

This thoughtful mix of housing types ensures that The Metropolitan appeals to a wide range of residents, from young professionals and families to empty nesters looking to downsize without sacrificing style or convenience.

Retail, Recreation, and Community Spaces

Beyond its residential offerings, The Metropolitan will become a destination in its own right, with retail spaces, restaurants, and entertainment options designed to draw people from across the city. The pedestrian connection from the light rail will serve as a gateway into the development, lined with boutiques, dining options, and desert-inspired landscapes.

A central park and amphitheater will host concerts, movie nights, and other community events, while the roof of the parking garage will be transformed into an active space featuring a restaurant, pool, pickleball courts, and additional retail and event spaces that overlook the main plaza. This combination of green space, recreational amenities, and urban conveniences will make The Metropolitan a dynamic hub for both residents and visitors.

A Strategic Midway Point for Phoenix’s Growth

According to Christine Mackay, community and economic development director for the City of Phoenix, The Metropolitan will serve as an important connector between North and South Phoenix. As advanced manufacturing and tech companies like TSMC continue to drive growth in North Phoenix, The Metropolitan will become a key midway point for people to live, work, and play.

“Metrocenter Mall acts as a connector between the southern and northern parts of the city,” Mackay explained. “With the growth in the northern part of the city moving forward with major advanced manufacturing and technologically advanced companies, this will be the location where people come to celebrate and entertain, much like Metrocenter Mall was when we were kids.”

This redevelopment represents a thoughtful balance of honoring the past while preparing for the future. The project aims to create a space that reflects the changing needs of the community while maintaining the spirit of connection and gathering that Metrocenter Mall once embodied.

Years in the Making: A Redevelopment Journey

The journey to redevelop Metrocenter Mall has been years in the making, with numerous challenges along the way. Many developers previously approached the city with proposals that either required large incentives or suggested turning the site into a distribution center—ideas that did not align with the city’s vision for revitalization.

It wasn’t until 2020 that a clear path forward emerged. Steve Sirang, CEO of Wilshire Capital, presented his vision for Metrocenter to Christine Mackay and Jeff Stapleton, program manager for transit-oriented development at the City of Phoenix.

“When he left, I turned to Jeff and said, ‘We just met the redeveloper of Metrocenter,’” Mackay recalled. This pivotal meeting eventually led to a partnership with Chris Anderson, senior managing director at Hines, who helped bring the project to life. After reaching out to 26 different developers, the city finally found the right team to transform Metrocenter into The Metropolitan.

A New Era for North Phoenix Real Estate

The transformation of Metrocenter Mall into The Metropolitan signals a new era for North Phoenix real estate. With its mix of residential, retail, and recreational spaces, this development is expected to drive property values and attract new residents to the area.

For homebuyers, investors, and real estate professionals, the redevelopment represents a unique opportunity to be part of Phoenix’s urban renaissance. As the city continues to grow and evolve, projects like The Metropolitan highlight the potential for innovation and revitalization in once-familiar spaces.

Interested in North Phoenix’s Newest Developments?

If you’re considering buying, selling, or investing in North Phoenix’s rapidly evolving real estate market, I’m here to help you navigate the opportunities presented by projects like The Metropolitan. Let’s connect and explore how you can be part of this exciting new chapter in Phoenix’s growth.📧 Email: jeff@conniecollagroup.com
📞 Phone: +1 (602) 550-1114
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