Reimagining Simi Valley Town Center Mall Through Adaptive Reuse
In February 2025, the new owners of Simi Valley Town Center, SteelWave and Steerpoint Capital, submitted a preliminary site plan to the city of Simi Valley. Their proposal includes the development of up to 375 residential units on the mall property, utilizing areas such as existing parking lots and vacant retail spaces, including the former Macy's building that closed in 2017. The plan also envisions retaining some retail spaces, aiming for a balanced mixed-use environment.
Repurposing underutilized commercial properties into residential or mixed-use developments offers several benefits:
Efficient Land Use: Transforming existing structures or spaces maximizes land utilization without the need for expansive new developments, preserving surrounding environments.
Community Revitalization: Introducing residential units into commercial areas can rejuvenate neighborhoods, increasing foot traffic and supporting local businesses.
Infrastructure Optimization: These areas often already have essential infrastructure, such as roads and utilities, reducing the need for extensive new investments.
While adaptive reuse presents promising solutions, it also involves challenges:
Zoning and Regulatory Hurdles: Modifying land use requires navigating complex zoning laws and obtaining necessary approvals.
Community Engagement: Gaining public support is crucial, as residents may have concerns about changes to their neighborhoods.
Economic Viability: Ensuring that such projects are financially feasible for developers and affordable for residents is essential.
The Simi Valley Town Center project reflects a broader trend in California, where cities are exploring mixed-use developments to address housing shortages. By reimagining underperforming commercial spaces, these initiatives aim to create vibrant, sustainable communities that cater to diverse needs.
Converting parking lots, vacant retail spaces, and malls into mixed-use developments represents a strategic approach to alleviate California's housing crisis. The Simi Valley Town Center proposal exemplifies how adaptive reuse can contribute to creating more livable and dynamic urban environments.
“What they’re proposing is a model we’ve seen across the U.S., incorporating housing into malls that have lost some retail. I think the key is finding the right mix of retail and housing.”
VC Star article: New Simi Valley Town Center owner proposes housing on mall property
The new owners of the Simi Valley Town Center mall have submitted this document to the city, outlining their plan to build housing on the mall property.
Image courtesy of City of Simi Valley