The Provo City Council approved a series of land-use actions on Tuesday, Oct. 20, to allow for the redevelopment of the Provo Towne Centre property. The plan aims to transform the aging mall into a mixed-use district featuring housing, retail, restaurants, public gathering spaces, pedestrian amenities, and transit-oriented development.
The project, proposed by Justin Long of Brixton Capital, intends to create a walkable destination while preserving major retail anchors including Target, JCPenney, and Cinemark. Under the approved concept plan, the redevelopment will include approximately 1,300 apartment units, 77 owner-occupied townhomes, commercial and retail space, public gathering areas, enhanced bicycle and pedestrian connections, and improved transit access. The project also includes required affordable housing components through the state's Housing and Transit Reinvestment Zone program.
During the meeting, Councilor Rachel Whipple stated the redevelopment is a long-awaited opportunity to revitalize a struggling commercial center. She noted the project provides 77 new homes appropriate for families and various rental units. Councilor Gary Garrett added that the proposal represents an important opportunity for economic investment in southwest Provo, expressing appreciation for the planned transportation improvements.
The redevelopment includes property currently occupied by the Shady Acres mobile home park. As part of the development agreement, the applicant committed to providing 18 months' notice to residents—double the amount required by state law—along with $10,000 in relocation assistance per household. While several public members spoke in support of the revitalization, others raised concerns regarding bicycle safety, affordability, and the displacement of residents in the adjacent mobile home park.
The council approved the concept plan, zoning text amendments, and zoning changes through identical 5-1 votes. Councilor Becky Bogdin cast the lone dissenting vote, expressing concerns about the balance between housing and commercial development and whether the relocation assistance would be sufficient for affected residents. Councilor Craig Christensen was excused from the vote.
The redevelopment is expected to proceed in phases over multiple years. The project will return to the city for additional approvals related to infrastructure, site planning, and financing mechanisms.
