McAllen, TX— Simon, a global leader in retail real estate, held a preview of expansion plans today for La Plaza Mall, the Rio Grande Valley’s retail hub since 1976.
A newly constructed wing will accommodate an 80,000 square foot, two-level anchor, two junior anchors, 50 to 60 specialty stores and four to eight restaurants. The property will then expand further with new space between Macy’s and JCPenney. That portion of the development will add another 20 to 25 shops and several restaurants.
“La Plaza Mall since its opening has been the premier shopping location in our region. With the new and exciting expansion underway the fantastic shopping experience at La Plaza Mall is only going to be even better,” said Mayor Jim Darling. “The City of McAllen is very proud to have the Simon Company as part of our community.”
Simon will also upgrade the interior of the mall in McAllen with new flooring, restrooms, lighting, luxury seating and landscaping. Two new parking decks will also be added to the property. A two-level, 500-car parking deck will be built adjacent to Macy’s and is already under construction. A second two-level, 700-car parking deck will be built to serve JC Penney, Dillard’s and the mall.
“La Plaza Mall is a highly productive mall and demand for space is significant,” said David Contis, President of Simon’s mall division. "Simon is committed to the McAllen market, and we know that this expansion will bring in highly-sought, high-quality retailers and restaurants unlike anything else available in the area.”
Contis added that La Plaza Mall generates $400 million in sales per year. The mall currently employees 2,500 employees and the new expansion is expected to generate at least 500 jobs.
“We are part of the economic engine in McAllen and we are proud to be that,” Contis said.
La Plaza Mall General Manager Robert Luciano said that the mall would remain open during the renovation and the majority of the work would be done at night. The new expansion is expected to open in time for Texas’ tax-free weekend in 2017.
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