Phoenix Metrocenter Mall closing June 30 after 47 years

PHOENIX — Metrocenter Mall is shutting its doors after 47 years.

The manager of the Walmart in the Metrocenter complex confirmed to KTAR News 92.3 FM that the mall is shutting down June 30 after a picture of a letter posted to social media began circulating around Twitter.

Kim Ramirez, the Metrocenter general manager, wrote in the letter that the coronavirus took an economic toll on the center.

“Despite our best efforts to bring value back to the mall, complete maintenance projects and increase foot traffic the drop in our occupancy levels due to the COVID-19 pandemic can no longer sustain the operation of this large property,” she wrote.

The mall I grew up going to, Metro Center, is closing on June 30. I was bummed to find out that this mall will be gone for good because I grew up shopping and hanging out there. I also worked there as well selling shoes at Finish Line. This mall will forever be a special to me! pic.twitter.com/WR6uoRok80

— Robert Freedman (@RobOfAZBirdGang) June 20, 2020

The Metrocenter, which opened in 1973, has been trying to revitalize its financial situation for years. Ramirez wrote that decreased foot traffic due to the coronavirus was the breaking point.

“We hope to see Metrocenter redeveloped and reviatlized in the near uture so it can once again be the pride of the surrounding community,” Ramirez wrote.

Tenants and vendors will be allowed to remove property through July 15. Customers will not be allowed inside after June 30.

The Walmart in the complex will remain open, manager Duane Morrison said. It is not affiliated with the Metrocenter.

KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Jim Brinson contributed to this report.

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