The Phoenix City Council has unanimously approved a higher-density, mixed-use redevelopment plan for Metrocenter Mall in northwest Phoenix.

The new Planned Unit Development zoning for 130 acres allows for multiple new uses besides retail, such as office, senior housing, multifamily housing and healthcare. A Walmart Supercenter is planned on a 10-acre site
northwest of Interstate 17 and Dunlap Road.

The City Council approved increased density and height up to 15 stories or 180 feet. The Metrocenter area has among the highest surrounding residential density in metro Phoenix.

“This is a landmark moment that we have been working toward for quite a long time,” said Warren Fink, chief operating officer of Carlyle Development Co., the owner of Metrocenter Mall. 

The development plan encompasses 130 acres, with 83 acres of that occupied by Metrocenter Mall and the adjoining Macy’s and Sears anchor stores.

Carlyle Development will have the option of adding senior or multifamily housing, corporate offices, healthcare facilities and additional retail, restaurant and entertainment amenities. 

The company can also nearly double its current 800,000 square feet of existing space, to a total 1.6 million square feet. And Carlyle can build three electronic billboards along I-17 between Peoria and Dunlap roads.

“I grew up just a few blocks from Metrocenter, which has been an important part of my life and the lives of so many other Phoenix residents,” said Mayor Greg Stanton. “It feels good to help this area maintain its vitality as one of our Valley’s most important and recognizable retail and employment areas.”

Phoenix Councilwoman Thelda Williams, in whose district Metrocenter is located, said the rezoning was supported by the Village Planning Committee and the Planning Commission, sending “a clear message that our community is anxious to see this development plan move forward.” 

One of the first projects is construction of a 148,000-square-foot Walmart Supercenter at the site of the former Broadway building. 

“We are in active talks with a number of potential development partners now, and will move forward with a balance of creativity and strategy,” Fink said.  “Our objective is to develop projects that respond to market demand and that reinvigorate this land site as its highest and best use.”

A long-term project for Metrocenter is the extension of light rail to the mall, scheduled to begin serving the area by 2023.