Early Proposals Signal Major Changes
Westminster Mall redevelopment efforts are underway as two of the four property owners have submitted initial proposals. These plans aim to turn the underused mall into a vibrant, mixed-use community. The 100-acre site off the 405 Freeway could soon host housing, entertainment, and retail options that reflect modern urban living.
What’s Being Proposed?
So far, Shopoff Realty and True Life Companies have shared development drafts with the city. Together, their concepts cover thousands of residential units, new parks, retail space, and lifestyle enhancements such as a live music venue and a dog park.
The city approved a framework in 2022 to guide this transformation. It sets standards for building height, park space, traffic flow, and land use. All proposals are evaluated based on these regulations to ensure consistency and quality.
Shopoff’s Vision: Bolsa Pacific
Shopoff Realty owns 26 acres of the site, including the old Macy’s and Sears buildings. Their proposed project, Bolsa Pacific, features:
- 1,065 rental apartments
- 102 three-story townhomes
- A 175-room hotel
- 25,000 square feet of retail and dining space
- A 2.5-acre park with pickleball courts, a dog park, amphitheater, and water feature
Shopoff plans to break ground in 2025, pending final approval.
True Life Companies Submit Housing Proposal
True Life Companies submitted plans to develop a five-story multi-family residential building on 3.6 acres near the old Babies R Us store. This project is distinct from Shopoff’s development but follows the city’s cohesive vision.
City officials are currently reviewing both proposals and expect progress in the coming months.
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Kaiser Permanente Eyes Healthcare Hub
Kaiser Permanente owns 10 acres on the mall’s north side near Best Buy. Although they haven’t filed a full proposal, their regional planner revealed plans for a multi-phase medical office building. Phase one would include:
- 85,000 square feet of space
- 16 primary care offices
- 32 specialty care offices
- On-site lab, pharmacy, and X-ray services
Later phases remain under discussion.
Washington Prime Group’s Role Remains Unclear
Washington Prime Group, which owns the largest share of the property and manages the mall, has not submitted a proposal. City officials believe its eventual plan will include a mix of residential and retail development.
Mall General Manager Melissa Gomes declined to confirm timelines. However, city leaders hope all stakeholders will work collaboratively to align their developments with the city’s long-term goals.
Current Mall Status and Timeline
While many stores have closed, Target, Best Buy, JC Penney, and some seasonal vendors like the Pumpkin Factory remain open. Macy’s is expected to be demolished to make way for new developments.
Although no hard timeline exists, city leaders hope to see construction begin within the next five years — possibly sooner for Shopoff’s portion.
The Westminster Mall redevelopment may take time, but the groundwork for transformation is already in motion. With each submission, the future of this aging mall becomes clearer: a modern, walkable hub for living, shopping, and health services.