Burlington mall unveils massive redevelopment project

BURLINGTON, Vt. -

A massive redevelopment project was unveiled Thursday in downtown Burlington.

The new owners of the Town Center mall are planning not only a complete rehab of the shopping center, but some big additions as well.

An investment of $200 million from both the city of Burlington and the owners of Burlington Town Center will totally change the look of the mall to include a wide range of new amenities.

The mall's owner, Don Sinex, who bought the facility in 2013, said his ideas for the mall align with the Mayor Miro Weinberger's Plan BTV initiative, one of the top goals of which is to spur economic growth in the city. Sinex estimates his renovations could make the mall worth $450 million per year in economic activity and he says he will craft the final plans to respond to the public's needs.

"You know there is a need for housing in this city. We therefore conclude that housing should be a part of our project. We don't have much in the form of entertainment and shopping here. We want to change our tenant mix to reflect that. A hotel is a possibility," said Sinex.

"The mall is currently a grand obstruction to our existing grid. Cherry and Bank Streets are locked and imperviousness," said Joan Shannon, City Council president.

Sinex hopes the renovations will encourage more activity on Cherry and Bank streets and open them up to bikers and pedestrians.

The renovations will also include a new rooftop park between Macy's and Church Street. Sinex estimates the renovation will include 250 apartment units and could create over 1,000 new jobs in the Queen City.

A convention-style hotel with 250 rooms and large showrooms is a possibility as well.

Read more here:
Burlington mall unveils massive redevelopment project