The Century III shopping center in Allegheny County’s West Mifflin is finally going to be demolished.Additionally, the state government is helping to expedite the process.
During a press conference on Thursday, Lt. Gov. Austin Davis stated that Pennsylvania will be spending $1 million through a RACP grant to carry out the demolition process. In addition to providing 150 new jobs for a planned mixed-use complex that will replace the mall, the grant funds will assist keep local construction jobs.
According to a news release from Davis, “many of us who grew up in the area remember going to the Century III Mall over the years; it was truly a gem.”I’m delighted that the state has contributed $1 million to support the project and eager to see what the future holds for this location.
The CEO of Century III’s owner, Moonbeam Capital, Shawl Pryor, told WTAE that the demolition should be completed in 12 to 18 months.
Century III, once one of the biggest shopping centers in the nation, has been deserted since 2019 and has since become a trespassing risk.
The mall experienced a fire in April 2023. In June, a teenage guy was hospitalized after falling through the roof. Four persons were charged later that month for recording a YouTube video in the deserted shopping center.Another YouTuber was accused of trespassing in a mall in November.
Sara Innamorato, the executive of Allegheny County, told WPXI that the proposed mixed-use complex will comprise public amenities, residential areas, and commercial spaces.
According to Innamorato, the goal of this change is to create an asset that benefits everyone in this community, not merely to physically demolish the mall.By bringing a variety of business spaces, residential buildings, and public amenities that cater to the needs of the community, this property will be a generator of economic development.
In a press release, state senator-elect Nick Pisciottano stated, “I’m thrilled to see the state step up and help assist with the rehabilitation of Century III Mall.” Restoring this land to the tax rolls as a communal asset is the ultimate goal, and this is just the first step toward that goal. People in our community have been waiting a long time for this, so I’m glad we were able to complete it with the help of our local government and Shapiro-Davis Administration partners.
Stories by
Chris Mautner
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