Federal Realty outlines phased renovation plan to modernize Grossmont Center; council asks about events and retailers

City staff (Jared Chavez) and Federal Realty (Stuart McDonald) presented a phased renovation plan for Grossmont Center during the July 8 meeting. The proposed project would be carried out in three phases covering the northern portion first and subsequently the Macy's area and the center between Macy's and Walmart/Target. The presentation emphasized exterior façade improvements, replacement of outdated architectural elements, expanded landscaping (2,634 square feet of new landscaping), and a new central plaza and event space with seating, shade structures and a small stage.

Chavez described major (fae7ade) and minor improvements and showed concept images of the proposed main entry portico and refreshed storefronts. The project proposes to more than double required landscaping in key pedestrian zones and plant 30 new trees (six street trees at the Grossmont Center Drive entry and 24 interior trees).

Federal Realty's Stuart McDonald said the intention is to modernize the center to attract contemporary retailers, increase event capacity (tree lighting, small performances) and introduce shade and seating to make interior courtyards usable year-round. Councilmembers asked whether the center would be demolished (staff said no, it's a refresh) and whether the applicant expects to add restaurants and evening options; the applicant said attracting new retailers, including contemporary retail and food-and-beverage tenants, is a goal but specific tenant commitments are in negotiation.

Councilmembers expressed enthusiasm for restoring amenities that draw families and teenagers to the mall, and asked the applicant to consider returning seasonal attractions such as Santa and the Easter Bunny in the reconfigured plaza. No formal decision was requested at the meeting; staff and the applicant are available for follow-up questions and will continue the design-review process.