It’s been 10 years since construction stopped at a planned mall in Elk Grove after the original developer went bankrupt.
Now, the new developer says the project has been delayed, again.
A representative for Howard Hughes Corp., which owns the property, says the company is targeting a fall 2020 opening for the Outlet Collection at Elk Grove. Recent signs on site had announced an opening this year.
For many residents in Elk Grove, the site, known locally as the "Ghost Mall," has become a symbol of their frustration. People point to hour-long drives just to go shopping. Elk Grove officials say they are frustrated, too.
“I think all too often, blame starts to accrue to the city when a project hasn’t moved forward,” says Darrell Doan, the Economic Development Director for the City of Elk Grove.
“We’ve done our job,” Doan says. “We’ve done everything we can do to facilitate Howard Hughes to move forward with their project.”
Doan said the company is having a tough time getting the level of pre-leasing necessary to move forward with construction. A leasing brochure last year listed several stores that plan to open in Elk Grove, including Nike, H&M, Columbia, Guess, Express, Forever 21, American Eagle Outfitters and Victoria’s Secret.
When asked to confirm any of the prospective tenants, Howard Hughes Corp. declined to comment. The company did say its “leasing efforts are 100% in full force.”
Elk Grove officials say the developer has until November to decide whether to move forward with the project.
The city says it is also busy pursuing other retailers at other centers. Doan points to DICK’S Sporting Goods, Scandinavian Designs, and Costco which is scheduled to open in September.
The Wilton Rancheria Casino also plans to open just north of the mall site in 2021.