WEST MIFFLIN, Pa. — After years of blight, abandonment, and other issues, the former Century III Mall will soon be no more, as crews finish the demolition process.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Old Century III Mall to be demolished, prepped for redevelopment
Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen Zappala said 90 percent of the structure is gone, with a shell of one building left to go.
Community leaders said it’s been a long road to get here, but there’s a renewed sense of hope for the property that many believe has a lot of potential.
“I see a partnership with the local governments, and I see some really wonderful things happening,” said Zappala.
Over the years, Channel 11 has reported on continued problems there, its 2019 closure, and the nuisance charges filed by Zappala against its owner.
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“We’re all aware, for the past several years, of how it’s been, the condition it’s been, and it’s not been in the best interest of the community,” said Brian Kamauf, West Mifflin’s borough manager.
But Zappala said that’s all about to change. He believes it’s time for the property to be an asset to the community once again.
“Jefferson Hospital has spent 15 years improving its campus and its footprint in that area, and West Mifflin has not been able to take advantage of that because of the blight that was created by the defendants,” Zappala said.
Back in January, Zappala told Channel 11 that KDP Development Group and V-Land, both based out of Chicago, agreed to purchase the property and develop it. Now, Zappala said he sees a collaborative effort between those companies and local municipalities, including West Mifflin, Pleasant Hills, and Jefferson to decide the best use of the space.
“Most likely, it’s going to be some kind of multi-use. I think there’s potential for business as well as possibly residential in the area,” Kamauf said.
Zappala also shared what $1 million of state grant money, previously announced by State Senator Nick Pisciottano, will be used for.
“Initially, it was identified for demolition. Not one dime of taxpayer money is going to be used by the defendants in this matter. That money will be used to remediate the road that connected [Route] 51 to Old Clairton Boulevard,” Zappala said.
When asked what the next steps are in this process, Kamauf said finishing demolition and the new owners’ purchase of the property be finalized. Crews at the site on Thursday told us the last building will likely be torn down late next week.
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