Metrocenter Mall Demolition Begins for Urban Village

The demolition of the iconic Metrocenter Mall in Phoenix has begun, marking the start of a significant $850 million redevelopment project to create an urban village called 'The Metropolitan.' This new development will feature between 1,200 to 2,600 housing units, retail spaces, restaurants, and recreational areas, all centered around a new light rail hub. The mall, which opened in 1973 as Arizona's first two-story indoor mall and was featured in the film 'Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure,' closed in 2020. The project aims to transform the 80-acre site into a mixed-use community, maintaining the legacy of the original mall while providing modern amenities. Community members gathered to bid farewell to the landmark, reminiscing about its historical significance. The development is expected to open in phases, starting in 2026, and is seen as a potential model for repurposing vacant malls nationwide.