Future use of dead mall in Exton sparks ongoing community debate.

Exton Square Mall, a sprawling shopping complex of nearly one million square feet, faces an uncertain future amid a legal dispute between its developers and local government officials. Once a bustling retail destination, the mall currently has only a handful of stores left operational, compelling stakeholders to rethink its purpose and potential redevelopment.

Elkins Park-based Abrams Realty & Development has proposed an ambitious plan to transform the 75-acre site into a mixed-use community. The developers envision adding hundreds of townhouses, rental apartments, a 55-and-over community, and a centralized retail hub that would include restaurants, medical offices, and green space. However, this proposal has already faced significant opposition.

West Whiteland Township Supervisors Brian Dunn and Rajesh Kumbhardare recently rejected the development plan, citing concerns regarding sewer capacity, traffic congestion, and the overall density of the project. Their decision disregarded a prior recommendation from the township’s planning commission, leading Abrams to initiate legal action to seek approval for the project, asserting that it aligns with zoning regulations.

Abrams has expressed frustration, asserting that local officials have no legitimate grounds to dismiss the plan, especially regarding sewer capacity management at this early stage. He contends that the proposed redevelopment would generate less traffic than a fully functioning mall, countering the supervisors’ claims. Dunn and Kumbhardare maintain that their priority is the community’s welfare, indicating that extensive development could lead to strain on emergency services and local infrastructure.

Amidst the opposition, some residents have voiced approval for revitalization but are wary of the proposed scale. Victoria Donnelly McCue, a local resident, expressed support for some development but raised concerns about the adequacy of existing services, particularly healthcare facilities. The supervisors reported that many community members echoed similar sentiments in response to the proposed project.

The history of Exton Square Mall highlights the region’s rapid transformation from agricultural land to a commercial hub. Opened in 1973 with over 100 stores, the mall thrived for decades but has struggled to maintain relevance in a changing retail landscape. Plans for revitalization have been met with mixed reactions, indicating a complex balance between development needs and residents’ concerns about overbuilding.

Developers like Abrams envision a vibrant town center that could serve as a community focal point. His proposal includes a blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces designed to attract both new residents and businesses. However, as this legal battle unfolds, the timeline for redevelopment remains elusive.

With existing housing developments largely meeting demand in West Whiteland, local officials are indeed wary of any more substantial growth. The township’s population has surged by more than 20% since 2010, leading to increased traffic and infrastructural challenges. Meanwhile, the township awaits new residential projects, including the impending development of a 55-and-over community which marks the largest such undertaking in recent years.

As this situation develops, the discrepancies in projected tax revenue from the proposed plans and the legal ramifications of the ongoing lawsuit will play a critical role in determining the extent and nature of future developments at Exton Square Mall. The fate of the site remains uncertain as both developers and local government officials continue to navigate community concerns while attempting to foster beneficial growth.

Ultimately, the saga of Exton Square Mall serves as a lens into broader conversations about urban development, community needs, and the future of shopping malls in an evolving economic landscape.