Farewell MetroCenter as it Transforms into "The Metropolitan"

Phoenix’s historic MetroCenter Mall has officially begun its demolition this week, signaling a substantial transformation in the local landscape. This marks the conclusion of a 50-year era for a venue that has played a pivotal role in the community.

The site will soon be redeveloped into “The Metropolitan,” a mixed-use space that includes an outdoor retail area called “The Loop,” alongside a variety of townhomes ranging from affordable options to luxurious dwellings.

Phoenix City Councilwoman Ann O’Brien took the lead in the demolition effort, operating an excavator on Monday and initiating the teardown of the former Dillard’s department store. The redevelopment has been long awaited, and O’Brien expressed mixed feelings about the transition.

“It’s a little bit bittersweet,” O’Brien reflected, acknowledging the nostalgia many residents feel. “But this community has been waiting for so long for this to be rejuvenated.”

When it opened in 1973, MetroCenter was notable for being Arizona’s first indoor, two-story, air-conditioned mall. Though the mall closed its doors in 2020, it remains etched in the memories of many locals, including O’Brien herself.

“Shopping, my first credit card, one of my first jobs, sitting on Santa’s lap,” O’Brien reminisced. “Yeah, a lot of memories here.”

The mall also gained fame from its appearance in the film “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure,” widely recognized for its comedic take on high school history lessons. In a nod to the film’s impact, Phoenix Economic and Development Director Christine Mackay quoted a line from it during her comments at the demolition event.

“I now get to be part of the vision that creates the new iconic Metropolitan,” Mackay stated, highlighting the project’s potential significance.

The ambitious redevelopment is expected to take several years to complete. Stakeholders are hopeful that it will revitalize an area that has faced economic difficulties. Observers wonder whether the development will spur neighborhood renewal or if the community’s existing energy will drive the project’s success.

“I think it’s both,” O’Brien concluded, suggesting a symbiotic relationship between the two elements. “I think this will help to improve the area, but I also think the area will be able to support this.”