Shadle Center Owners Want Public’s Input On Mall Remodel

Neighbors are invited to voice concerns about the potential remodeling of Shadle Shopping Center, the antiquated mall developers hope to convert to a gleaming retail complex.

On behalf of the New York-based owners, Tomlinson Black Group of Co. has scheduled a “neighbors’ meeting” at 7 tonight at the mall’s former J.C. Penney building, on Wellesley between Alberta and Belt.

“Tomlinson Black is very concerned about how neighbors feel. We want to be sensitive to their concerns,” said Dave Black, corporate executive officer of Tomlinson Black.

Tomlinson Black and the owners, Century Properties Fund XI, are planning a new building for Safeway, 17,000 square feet of new space for small retailers and three new anchor pads. The agenda also includes a mammoth, 12-screen theater complex at the center’s southwest corner.

The old two-story J.C. Penney building at the northeast corner of the mall would be torn down and replaced by the new Safeway superstore. Other scheduled renovations include a 20-foot addition on top of the anchor pads for architectural flourish, as well as green landscaping near Wellesley and Alberta.

City hearing examiner Greg Smith postponed deciding the fate of the 34-year-old mall last week when he issued a continuation until July 18. At that time, neighbors and owners will present final testimony. Smith will then have two weeks to approve or reject the renovations.

Although he couldn’t speculate as to whether he’ll approve plans, Smith said he and neighbors wanted more proof that traffic wouldn’t become burdensome, especially near Shadle Park Presbyterian Church on Alberta.

“Most people are supportive of the center, but they have some concerns about parking and the size of the theater,” Smith said after the hearing. About 40 North Side residents attended the City Hall meeting.

Tomlinson Black also wanted a continuation to negotiate “unresolved issues” with tenants, Black said. The owner of Chuck E Cheese’s Pizza is especially concerned with shared parking for the children-oriented pizzeria and a proposed 12-screen theater complex.

City officials couldn’t guess as to when the final decision will come or what it will be.

“Realistically, we don’t know,” said city planner Robin Bekkedahl. “It depends when the final site plan comes in and when they get their final traffic study done.”

, DataTimes