Rendering of renovation plans for Park Central Mall in Phoenix. Photo Credit: Plaza Cos
Park Central Mall (originally known as Park Central Shopping City), first opened in 1957 as an outdoor regional mall and was the brain child of brothers, Ralph and A.J. Burgbacher. The two purchased the 46-acre property – located at Central Avenue and Earll Drive – in the 1950’s, and it quickly became the hub of activity along Central Avenue. By the late 1990’s, much of the mall had been transformed into office buildings and data centers with a few popular restaurants included in the mix.
For the past decade, Park Central has struggled to regain its foothold – primarily due to the impact of the Great Recession, but also the owner’s unwillingness to commit the necessary funding to enhance and evolve the shopping center to attract and retain tenants.
Fast forward to October 2017. Plaza Cos. and Holualoa Cos. announced they were buying 337,000 square feet of the once-iconic shopping center and transforming it from an outdated retail and office center to a dynamic new mixed-use development with the guidance and vision of local architect, richärd+bauer.
The new Park Central will combine its rich mid-century modern history with a new focus on technology, innovation and design, including all the most sought-after features in today’s office and retail market. Plans call for creative workspaces and offices, meeting spaces, art, shade, gathering places, onsite dining experiences, and an indoor/outdoor environment that is unlike any retail/office marketplace in the Valley.
With its easy access to major nearby freeways, two light rail stations, and close proximity to some of Phoenix’s most popular neighborhoods, housing, retail spaces and foodie hotspots, this is one development we are excited to see making a comeback.
It will be a tremendous addition to the area while also paying tribute to its rich history in the community. The project is currently halfway through its year- long transformation and is set to be complete by Q4 2018.
For more information on the Park Central Mall project, visit Park Central Phoenix. For a look at other exciting projects currently underway in the Midtow/Uptown area, click here.
